Resection of the stomach can range from a simple wedge resection to partial removal of the stomach, and at times completely removing the entire stomach.  The type of surgery required depends on both the type of underlying tumor and its location.  With certain tumors only a minimal resection margin is needed.  Other more aggressive cancers may require a wide resection margin to ensure all microscopic tumor is removed.  Furthermore, depending on the underlying diagnosis there may be a need for extensive lymph node dissection as well.

Finally, in addition to standard preoperative imaging, certain gastric cancers may require a diagnostic laparoscopy-a procedure in which we place a camera and examine the abdominal cavity to ensure there is no occult spread of disease.  This diagnostic laparoscopy is usually followed by chemotherapy, repeat imaging and eventually resection of the stomach.