Stomach surgery is an effective long-term treatment for stomach cancer, hiatal hernias, and severe peptic ulcer disease. At Lenox Hill Surgeons, LLP in the Lenox Hill area of Manhattan in New York City, the talented board-certified surgeons offer stomach surgery using various minimally invasive and traditional techniques. Book an appointment online or call the office to help with stomach issues.

What is stomach surgery?

Stomach surgery covers problems that originate in your stomach. This type of surgery can treat many different conditions, both malignant (cancerous) and non-malignant. 

When might I need stomach surgery?

The team at Lenox Hill Surgeons, LLP might recommend stomach surgery if you have one of the following problems. 

Stomach cancer

Stomach cancer manifests as tumors in the cells that line the stomach. It’s generally a slow-growing cancer and may not cause any symptoms at first. 

The stage of stomach cancer depends on multiple factors, such as how far the tumor has spread into the stomach wall; whether the cancer has spread to the abdominal lymph nodes nearby; and whether the cancer has reached other parts of the body. 

As with all cancers, earlier treatment is always better. Surgery can remove the tumor and some of its surrounding tissue.

Hiatal hernias

A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach pokes through the muscle layer between the chest and abdomen (diaphragm). This leaves that part of the stomach twisted up next to the esophagus (food tube), causing a lot of discomfort. 

Surgery can repair the hiatal hernia, restoring the stomach to its proper place. This can relieve acid reflux and other uncomfortable issues related to the hernia. In many cases, surgeons also tighten the opening in the diaphragm to reduce the risk of hernia recurrence.

Peptic ulcer disease

Peptic ulcer disease often responds to medication, but in cases where treatment fails, surgery could be the best solution. Stomach surgery can remove the ulcer, repair the ulcer hole with fatty tissue, or remove part of the nerve that stimulates acid release. 

If your peptic ulcer causes an obstruction, surgery can redirect stomach contents to relieve the problem. The surgery can relieve bleeding, pain, heartburn, and other peptic ulcer disease symptoms. 

Stomach surgery can also help with other types of problems in and around your abdominal organs.

How does stomach surgery work?

Lenox Hill Surgeons, LLP offers all types of stomach surgery. The team prioritizes minimally invasive approaches like laparoscopic and robotic surgery with the da Vinci® system whenever possible. 

These techniques involve several small incisions instead of a longer one, leading to less hospital time and a shorter recovery. 

In some cases, open surgery is the best approach, as with widespread stomach cancer. The team extensively evaluates your case and discusses your situation with you, making sure you’re involved in the decision-making process.

Schedule your appointment by calling Lenox Hill Surgeons, LLP, or by clicking the online scheduler now.