Hemigastrectomy

/ˌhɛmɪɡæsˈtrɛktəmi/ noun

Definition

A surgical procedure in which approximately half of the stomach is removed, usually to treat ulcers, cancer, or other stomach conditions.

Etymology

From Greek 'hemi-' (half) + 'gastrectomy' (from 'gaster,' stomach + '-ectomy,' surgical removal). The term literally means 'half stomach removal' and describes a major abdominal surgery.

Kelly Says

A hemigastrectomy is a radical treatment, but it works because your stomach is mostly for storage and acid production—you can survive and digest fine with half, though you'll need to eat smaller meals more frequently.

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