Gastrointestinal surgery involves operations performed to treat diseases affecting the digestive system. In cancer care, surgery may be required for tumours involving parts of the digestive tract or associated organs, depending on the location and extent of the disease.
The digestive system includes structures such as the oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, rectum, liver, pancreas, and other related organs.
Why and When Is Gastrointestinal Surgery Recommended?
Surgery may be considered when:
- A gastrointestinal tumour can be surgically removed: Removing the primary cancer may be an important part of treatment.
- The tumour causes obstruction: Surgery may help manage blockage in selected cases.
- Cancer causes bleeding or perforation: Certain complications may require surgical treatment.
- The tumour involves nearby tissues: The extent of surgery is determined by the spread of disease.
- Surgery forms part of combined cancer treatment: It may be planned alongside chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, or other treatments.
How Is Gastrointestinal Surgery Performed?
The procedure depends on the organ and type of cancer involved. Surgery may involve removing the tumour along with a section of surrounding tissue and relevant lymph nodes.
The remaining sections of the digestive tract may be surgically reconnected when appropriate. In some cases, a temporary or permanent stoma may be required.
Depending on the condition, surgery may be performed through open, laparoscopic, or other minimally invasive approaches.
What Should Patients Expect After Surgery?
Recovery varies according to the complexity and location of the operation. Patients may require pain management, nutritional support, wound care, physiotherapy, and monitoring during recovery.
The healthcare team gradually guides patients regarding eating, movement, and return to normal activities.
What Happens After Gastrointestinal Surgery?
The removed tissue is examined by a pathologist to determine the tumour type, margins, lymph-node involvement, and other characteristics.
These findings help determine whether additional cancer treatment is required. Depending on the diagnosis, further treatment may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or other treatments.
Gastrointestinal cancer surgery is planned through a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists working together to provide coordinated treatment based on the patient's diagnosis and individual needs.
