Total gastrectomy

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My mum (74) has recently been diagnosed with a gastrooesophageal junction tumour. We are awaiting biopsy results however the medical team are absolutely certain this is malignant. We have been told that the treatment pathway is likely to be chemotherapy and a total gastrectomy. To say we are absolutely floored by this news is an understatement. Currently my mum is unsure whether she wants to go through with the operation due to worries about her quality of life post surgery. I would really appreciate hearing of other people's experiences (both challenging and successful) within the age range of 65-80years. We have found other forums but with younger people's experiences of a gastrectomy. I appreciate any contact. Thank you.

  • Hi sorry to hear your news ! everyone is in turmoil until they get an understanding of the situation! And a plan so don’t panic there will be treatment options. I have just had a oesophagectomy which is removal of part of the oesophagus and the stomach comes up to join it but I understand a gastrectomy is the removal of the stomach which is used more in stomach cancer so not able to help with that but I can assure your mom will be in good hands I’m 67 so slightly younger. 

  • I am 76 and had a tumour at the gastrooesphageal junction I had a total gastrectomy and part of my oesophagus removed 3 years ago. the first few months were tough going eating small mashed up meals etc i lost about 70 pounds in weight. 

    Now 3 years later my blood pressure is normal my sugar is normal my triglyserides and cholesterol are normal my asthma is gone and i can buy normal clothes of the shelf. I can eat an average size meal and drink any alcohol i want i however get drunk very quickly and can't drink a lot of larger beers. i wouldn't hesitate to have it again.