What is laparoscopic wedge resection of the stomach?
During the operation, only the area of the stomach containing the lesion is removed, with an adequate margin of healthy tissue. The procedure is most often performed with modern endoscopic linear staplers through several small incisions in the abdominal wall.
Unlike gastrectomy, wedge resection preserves most of the stomach, which minimizes functional problems after surgery.
Our approach
At MSI, every case is analyzed in detail after gastroscopy, endoscopic ultrasound (when indicated), computed tomography, and morphological confirmation of the diagnosis.
Before surgery, the nature, location, and size of the tumor and the risk of malignancy are determined. We always aim to perform the most organ-preserving procedure possible, provided it meets the principles of oncological safety.
Preference is given to the laparoscopic approach, which means less surgical trauma, faster recovery, and an excellent cosmetic result. After surgery, the principles of *ERAS (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery)* are applied.
When is surgery needed?
Laparoscopic wedge resection of the stomach is performed for:
- gastric GIST
- benign gastric tumors
- certain neuroendocrine tumors
- submucosal lesions
- large adenomas that cannot be removed endoscopically
- early forms of gastric cancer in carefully selected patients, when this meets oncological principles
Indications for surgery
Surgery is recommended for:
- localized small or medium-sized gastric tumors
- suspected GIST
- cases where endoscopic treatment is impossible
- the need for radical removal of the lesion while preserving as much of the stomach as possible
How is the operation performed?
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia.
After a laparoscopic exploration of the abdominal cavity, the required area of the stomach is mobilized, and the tumor is then removed by wedge resection using modern stapling technology or hand-sewn sutures, depending on the clinical situation.
The removed tissue is always sent for histopathological examination.
Advantages of laparoscopic surgery
- Maximum preservation of the stomach
- Less surgical trauma
- Less postoperative pain
- Lower risk of postoperative complications
- Faster return to eating
- Shorter hospital stay
- Better cosmetic result
Recovery after surgery
Postoperative treatment follows the *ERAS* program. Eating is resumed gradually once gastrointestinal function has been checked. Most patients quickly return to their normal lifestyle without significant changes in diet.
Our advantages
- Specialization in minimally invasive gastric surgery
- The most organ-preserving approach possible
- Individual choice of the extent of surgery
- Modern laparoscopic and stapling technology
- Adherence to ESMO, NCCN, and Japanese Gastric Cancer Association guidelines
- Enhanced recovery program (ERAS)
Frequently Asked Questions
No. In a wedge resection, only the area of the stomach with the lesion is removed, while most of the organ is preserved.
Most often for GIST, benign tumors, certain neuroendocrine tumors, and some early malignant tumors, when this meets the principles of oncological safety.
For most GISTs and benign tumors, no, because they rarely spread to the lymph nodes. If adenocarcinoma is suspected, a different extent of surgery may be needed, including gastrectomy with lymph node dissection.
For most patients, stomach function remains practically unchanged after recovery. A gentle diet is recommended temporarily in the early postoperative period.
In most cases, yes. The final decision depends on the location and size of the tumor and its relation to the cardia or pylorus.