What is gastrointestinal (GI) cancer surgery?

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer surgery is a procedure to remove cancer from parts of the digestive system, like the stomach, colon or pancreas. The goal is to take out the tumor and any tissue it may have spread to.

Who is a candidate for gastrointestinal (GI) cancer surgery?

Doctors may recommend surgery if the cancer is in one area and can be removed. It works best when the cancer has not spread too far.

  • People with early-stage GI cancer
  • People whose cancer has not spread to distant organs
  • People who are healthy enough for surgery

What to expect during gastrointestinal (GI) cancer surgery

The surgery can take a few hours and is done in a hospital.

  • You will be given medicine so you sleep through the surgery
  • The doctor will make a cut to reach the cancer
  • The cancer and nearby tissue may be removed
  • You will stay in the hospital for a few days afterward

What are the risks for gastrointestinal (GI) cancer surgery?

Surgery has risks, but doctors work to keep you safe. Some risks include:

  • Bleeding during or after surgery
  • Infection at the area where the cut was made
  • Trouble with digestion after part of the stomach or intestine is removed
  • Feeling tired or weak during healing

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