Gastric Cancer
Gastric Cancer is uncommon in Australia, but is more common in places such as Japan and Korea.
The biggest risk factor in Australia is infection with Helicobacter Pylori, which is the bacteria that can lead to stomach ulcers.
The most common type of gastric cancer is adenocarcinoma, which makes up about 95% of cases.
The symptoms of gastric cancer tend to be fairly vague. It may present with non-specific pain, nausea, feeling full quickly, weight loss or occasionally bleeding into the gut. These vague symptoms are the reason gastric cancer is often diagnosed late. The diagnosis is made with a gastroscopy and a biopsy.
The definitive treatment for gastric cancer is surgery, however chemotherapy may play a role in treatment before, after or instead of an operation.
Gastrectomy is the removal of all or part of the cancer-affected stomach along with the draining lymph nodes. The digestive tract is then reconstructed by bringing the small intestine up to the remaining oesophagus or upper stomach so that food can pass through for digestion.
Weight loss is a common part of cancers of the gut, and especially with treatment including surgery and chemotherapy. We recommend discussing with our dietitian during your treatment journey to try and optimise your nutrition and limit weight loss.
Treatment,
tailored to you
Gallbladder surgery
Removal of the gallbladder- otherwise known as cholecystectomy- is almost always done via a laparoscopic, or keyhole, approach. This is usually performed electively either as day surgery or with a one-night stay in hospital.
Dr Gillespie specialises in the following procedures
Abdominal Wall Hernia Repair
There are many different types of abdominal wall hernia- but this can include umbilical (naval) and incisional hernias.
They are always repaired under a general anaesthetic.
Gastrectomy
A gastrectomy is performed for the surgical management of gastric (stomach) cancer. It involves the removal of the tumour with the stomach itself ensuring that the entire cancer is removed, along with removal of the lymph nodes that would typically be the first place that cancer would spread.
Fundoplication (Anti Reflux Surgery)
A fundoplication is a surgical procedure performed for people with proven gastro-oesophageal reflux that cannot be managed with medication alone. It is also performed as part of a hiatus hernia repair. It is usually performed laparoscopically.
Hiatus Hernia Repair
Most hiatus hernia surgery is performed laparoscopically (keyhole surgery) and involves returning the stomach to the abdominal cavity and then repairing the hernia itself.
Inguinal (groin) hernia repair
This is generally done via a laparoscopic (keyhole) approach under a general anaesthetic. There may be some circumstances where an open approach is preferable and Dr Gillespie will discuss the details specific to you when consenting for surgery.
Endoscopy (Gastroscopy/Colonoscopy)
Endoscopy is performed under either a sedation or general anaesthetic. It is a day procedure that occurs in hospital.
Oesophagectomy
An oesophagectomy is performed to remove a tumour of the oesophagus or the junction between the oesophagus and stomach, along with the lymph nodes to which this cancer tends to spread first.
Weight Loss Surgery
First of all, congratulations on making the first step towards a real lifestyle change. We know that most people will have already explored many options before enquiring about weight loss surgery.
Often, people are sick of the cycle of weight loss followed by weight regain. And many people will find that after working hard to lose weight, they can even put more back on. This process can be so disheartening. While weight loss surgery is by no means an "easy" way out, it can help break this cycle and empower you with the tools to have long lasting weight loss.
But more important than the number on the scales, bariatric surgery can help with obesity related complications and allow you to live a life without compromise.
