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| Gastrectomy (Stomach Surgery) |
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| What
Happens After A Gastrectomy? |
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| Fasting is necessary after gastrectomy to allow
healing of the wound. This is temporary and feeding can begin when
the intestines have recovered. |
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| Some possible side effects following surgery include: |
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Early satiety, or feeling full with a smaller
amount of food. |
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Weight loss - this is related to early satiety.
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Diarrhoea - in the initial period. |
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Anaemia - due to iron or, more
commonly, Vitamin B12 deficiency. This will be monitored and
replacement given if necessary. |
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"Dumping" syndrome -
occasional 'fainting spells' after meals due to rapid emptying
of the stomach. This is uncommon. |
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Most of the side effects resolve with time and diet
modification. Patients will be taught to manage their diet to reduce
their discomfort. This is important in the early stages after surgery.
The initial period following surgery is important, as adjustments
to diet and activity will have to be made at home. The patient will
benefit from encouragement and support from family members who understand
the process of recovery. With time, the patient will become adjusted
and be able to revert to a normal eating pattern.
The "new reservoir" will gradually be able to accommodate
more food.
Patients generally stay for a week in the hospital after gastrectomy.
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