What To Do If There's A Tumor In The Stomach

When a growth is detected in the stomach, the first and most important step is to determine whether it is benign or malignant. Once diagnosed, treatment options can be explored based on the patient's overall health and the stage of the tumor. In most cases, surgery is considered the primary treatment approach.

There are two main types of surgical procedures: radical and palliative. Radical surgery aims to completely remove the cancerous tissue, including the affected part of the stomach and surrounding tissues that may be involved. This could involve removing a portion or the entire stomach, depending on the extent of the disease.

On the other hand, palliative surgery is performed when the tumor cannot be completely removed due to its advanced stage or location. These procedures are designed to relieve symptoms such as obstruction, bleeding, or perforation. Common palliative surgeries include gastrojejunostomy, jejunostomy, and perforation repair.

If the tumor is found to be malignant, chemotherapy may be recommended either before or after surgery to increase the chances of successful treatment and prolong survival. For patients with advanced gastric cancer, chemotherapy can help slow the progression of the disease, alleviate symptoms, and improve quality of life.

In addition to these primary treatments, other supportive therapies such as radiation therapy, hyperthermia, immunotherapy, and complementary treatments like herbal medicine may also be used as part of a comprehensive care plan. A multidisciplinary approach is often the most effective strategy for managing stomach tumors.