Stomach Cancer in Thibodaux, LA

Ready to Consult a GI Physician?

Find a Provider

Gastric cancer, also referred to as stomach cancer, is a condition that occurs in the cells of the innermost layer of the stomach. The condition is the uncontrolled reproduction of unusual cells. This collection of the additional cells causes a block of tissue known as a tumor. Cancerous cells can grow everywhere in the stomach. Cancers of the stomach can vary by type depending on the cells from which they originate, like hormone-making cells, the cells of the innermost layer, or the immune cells of the stomach. Stomach cancers can multiply and spread to other parts of the body. At first, they move from the stomach to the lymph nodes, then further spread through the lymphatic system. Throughout more severe phases, the cell growth might move into other parts of the body through the blood.

If you have been diagnosed with cancer of the stomach, you may want to seek out a skilled GI physician through Digestive Health Center. To get in touch with a specialist who provides help for stomach cancer in Thibodaux, LA, please contact your nearest location today.

The exact cause of cancer of the stomach is not known, but there are certain variables that can result in increased risk. These might involve:

  • Being obese
  • Family predisposition
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease
  • A high salt diet
  • H. pylori infection
  • Smoking and consuming tobacco products

If you or a family member feel you're at an elevated risk for gastric cancer, we invite you to speak to your Digestive Health Center provider to learn about screening options and prevention.

Stomach cancer intervention could differ according to the type and stage of cancer. Your age and the overall status of your health are also of important consideration in determining the treatment modality. Treatment could include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. Surgical procedures are the standard option for handling stomach cancer. A few kinds of operations could be used to treat gastric cancer. The type of surgery used will depend on the location of the cancer and how far the cancerous cells have reached in the stomach. The three types of surgery for gastric cancer include:

  • Subtotal gastrectomy: During this particular surgery, a portion of the stomach will be pulled out. Your surgery is often performed when the stomach cancer is just in the pylorus, or the lower part of the stomach, or the cardia (upper part of the stomach). During your procedure, just a part of your stomach will be taken out, and sometimes the esophagus is withdrawn along with it. Nearby lymph nodes might be removed. The remaining part of your stomach is then reaffixed.
  • Total gastrectomy: In this surgery, the entire stomach will be extracted, along with lymph nodes, and a completely new stomach will be made using your small intestine. This procedure is usually completed when the cancer has spread to the entire stomach. At times, adjacent organs are also extracted if the cancer has moved into them.
  • Endoscopic mucosal resection: This is performed if the gastric cancer is diagnosed at an initial stage, where spreading to your lymph nodes is lower. During your procedure, cancerous tissue is excised from the stomach using an endoscope, or a long pliable scope with a camera attached to the end. The endoscope is moved through the mouth, where surgical tools can also be used through it in order to remove any cancer cells. The surgical procedure is completed using only these tools and will not involve any incisions in the body.

Chemotherapy and radiation therapy may also be administered after your procedure to get rid of the few cancerous cells that could be remaining and to prevent the recurrence of the cancer. Our Thibodaux, LA gastroenterologists can work with you to create the proper treatment approach for you.

Unlikely issues of gastric cancer surgery could include bleeding, blood clots, and organ damage. You might also develop persistent heartburn, stomach pain (particularly after meals), and vitamin deficiencies.

After your surgery, follow-up appointments are necessary because the stomach cancer can reoccur. If there is uncertainty, your GI specialist could request certain testing to confirm any findings.

The breakdown of vitamin B12 happens through the upper stomach. If the upper stomach was taken out by a surgical procedure, vitamin B12 amounts will need to be very closely checked and injections will be provided when needed. Your provider might suggest that a nutritional specialist plan your diet. You may be advised to eat smaller meals more frequently since the capacity of your new stomach may be smaller.

Find A Provider Find A Location

Cancer of the stomach, or gastric cancer as it’s often called, can be a disturbing diagnosis to hear. The GI doctors at Digestive Health Center can partner with you to assist you and your family through surgical treatment. If you have suffered distressing gastric troubles or are at an elevated risk of getting gastric cancer, our Thibodaux, LA gastroenterologists are here to assist you. Request a consultation at your closest location to learn more about gastric cancer as well as additional conditions that could impact your GI tract.

Dr. Duplechain was very considerate of my needs and thorough to diagnose my condition. Thank You

A.P. Google

Dr. Toups is very thorough during his exam. He is very concerned and informative with my situation. He listens and gives precise instructions to help me. I find I am feeling so much better. As a patient I have to do my part in taking care of myself. I would recommend him to anyone. You will be pleased.

C.H. Google

Great guy! His office personnel was courteous & ran his office on time. I was really nervous when I got there but he’s cool af.

J. Google

I seldom if ever leave a review, but in this case I feel it is very much deserved. I arrived at the appropriate time and was received most cordially. The staff was so helpful and so kind. The procedure went fine as the Dr. Duplichain went above and beyond to take care of my difficulties. I can honestly testify that my doctor and his staff are the BEST.

R.B. Google

Dr Toups Is such a sweet Dr he takes his time and explain what your issue is and how to resolve it I would definitely recommend him to family and friends.

R. Google

481

Total Reviews

4.9

Average Rating