If you’ve received a stomach cancer diagnosis, your doctor may suggest surgery as part of your overall treatment plan. Being overwhelmed is natural, but learning what the surgery involves can help you feel more informed and in control.
Stomach cancer surgery removes part or all of the stomach so as to remove the cancerous growth with a cuff of normal tissue together with the surrounding lymph nodes. Doctors often pair surgery with chemotherapy or radiation, depending on the cancer’s stage.
Our surgeons aim to remove the tumour as thoroughly and safely as possible while preserving your quality of life.
Doctors choose the type of surgery based on the size, location, and stage of the cancer. Common types include:
In this procedure, the lower part of the stomach (the distal portion) is removed. It is performed when the cancer is located in the lower section of the stomach. The remaining portion of the stomach is then connected to the small intestine to restore digestive function.
When cancer affects a large area of the stomach or is located near the upper part, a total gastrectomy may be recommended. This surgery removes the entire stomach. The oesophagus is then attached directly to the small intestine.
Nowadays, stomach cancer surgery may be performed either with the traditional open approach or the laparoscopic approach. Which approach depends on the size of the cancer, patient’s factors and surgeon’s opinion.
Open gastrectomy involves making a larger incision in the abdomen to access the stomach. Open gastrectomy may be recommended for larger or more complex tumours, as it gives the surgeon a direct view and greater access to surrounding structures.
A minimally invasive option, laparoscopic gastrectomy is done using several small incisions and a camera-guided instrument. It can be used for certain early-stage stomach cancers and results in less post-operative pain and a quicker recovery time compared to open surgery.
Doctors typically recommend surgery when they detect stomach cancer early, and it hasn’t spread beyond the stomach or to nearby lymph nodes. They may also suggest surgery:
Your doctor will tailor the timing and approach based on your overall health and the stage of your cancer.
Before surgery, your care team will perform imaging scans, blood tests, and possibly an endoscopy to assess your condition and guide the surgical plan. They may ask you to fast, stop certain medications, or manage chronic conditions in preparation.
Your care team will walk you through:
Surgeons perform stomach cancer surgery under general anaesthesia, and the procedure usually lasts several hours. They may use one of two main techniques:
During surgery, the team removes the affected portion of the stomach and nearby lymph nodes. They then reconnect the digestive system so that the patient can continue to eat normally.
Your recovery starts in the hospital. Nurses and doctors will closely monitor you and support you with IV fluids or a feeding tube until your digestive system returns to normal function. They will gradually reintroduce liquids and soft foods.
The care team will help manage your pain, care for the surgical site, and encourage early ambulation and chest exercises to promote healing and recovery. Most patients stay in the hospital for about 7–10 days, and complete recovery can take several weeks to a few months.
If you do not have stomach cancer, then understanding the risk factors can help you detect the condition early or possibly avoid it. Key risk factors include:
If you have any of the above risk factors or experience persistent digestive symptoms, consult your doctor.
The cost of stomach cancer surgery in Singapore varies depending on whether you need partial or total removal of the stomach, among other factors.
According to the Ministry of Health’s historical transacted bill sizes and fee benchmarks, surgeons’ fees typically range from S$13,500 to S$20,400 (excluding GST).
Surgeons’ fees usually fall between S$14,600 and S$23,300 (excluding GST).
These figures reflect only the surgical fees. The final hospital bill will also depend on:
Both procedures are Medisave-claimable, helping you cover part of the cost. Additional support may be available through your integrated shield plan or private insurance. For a cost estimate tailored to your situation, speak with your hospital’s financial counsellor or care team.
Follow your doctor’s instructions, which may include fasting, adjusting your medication, and undergoing preoperative tests. Staying hydrated and keeping stress in check can also improve your recovery.
You may feel some discomfort, but your care team will provide pain relief. They’ll also support you with a recovery plan to minimise complications.
A dietician will help you adjust your eating habits. You may need to eat smaller meals more frequently and use supplements to maintain your nutrition.
You’ll attend regular check-ups and scans to monitor for cancer recurrence. Your team may include dietitians, physiotherapists, or counsellors as needed.
Some people experience digestion issues, dumping syndrome, or weight loss. Most symptoms improve with dietary changes and lifestyle support.
Watch for fever, unusual pain, swelling or redness at the incision site, trouble eating, or unexplained weight loss. Contact your doctor if you notice these signs.
Yes, there is a risk of recurrence. Regular follow-up appointments and check-ups play a key role in detecting any early recurrence and managing it effectively.
Facing stomach cancer is never easy, but with the right treatment plan and support system, recovery is possible. If you’re exploring surgical options or planning treatment, consult our specialists who can help you make informed decisions for your health.
Colorectal & General Surgeon
Upper Gastrointestinal, Bariatric & General Surgeon
Nexus Surgical provides comprehensive financial services to ensure a seamless and pleasant experience.
Our clinics will be closed from 16 – 18 Feb for CNY
Our clinic at Mt Alvernia Medical Centre A will be relocating from #06-05 to #03-03 (within the same building) on Friday, 26 Sep afternoon.
Our telephone line 6353 4855 will be temporarily unavailable from 12:00pm – 6:00pm on 26 September. During this period, you may reach out to our other clinics for assistance:
We will begin operations at our new premises (#03-03) from Tuesday, 30 Sep onwards.
We look forward to serving you at our new clinic!
Nexus Surgical clinics at Mt Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre, Gleneagles Medical Centre, Parkway East Medical Centre and Mt Alvernia Medical Centre will be closed on 28 January 2025 for Lunar New Year celebrations, while our clinic at Mt Elizabeth Orchard Medical Centre remains open from 0900-1300 hours on 28 January 2025.
Please leave a message in our voice mails and we will respond to you as soon as we can when we resume our clinics on 31 January 2025. If you require any urgent assistance, kindly go to the Urgent Care Centre of any hospitals or contact your doctor through the Emergency Answering Service. Our team at Nexus Surgical would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your loved ones a Happy & Prosperous Lunar New Year with good health in the Year of the Snake!
Nexus Surgical will be away from 17 to 20 October 2024 for our Annual Company Retreat. The aim of our retreat is to review and to recharge, so that we may serve you better.
Our clinics at Mount Elizabeth Orchard, Mount Elizabeth Novena, Mount Alvernia and Parkway East hospitals will therefore be closed during this period. In the meantime, if you require any urgent assistance, kindly contact us through our Answering Service at +65 6333 5550.
We thank you for your understanding and patience for any inconvenience.
