Gastrectomy. my dr is scheduling me for laprascopic gastrectomy for adenocarcinoma. i was told it would be "out patient". is this possible?

No: No laparoscopic gastrectomies for cancer , the need for adequate lymph node sampling and excission is critical in the survival of the gastric adenocarcinoma patients as well as omentectomy.

I don't think so: That is major surgery, even laparoscopically (technically difficult, doesn't take less time to perform). It is not simply removing the stomach; it is attaching what's left (part of stomach, if a partial gastrectomy, or esophagus, if total gastrectomy) to the intestine; generally requires admission for at least several days.

Very Unusual: Gastrectomies for adenocarcinoma, even if done laparoscopically, mandate an inpatient stay of at least 1-2 days but typically closer to 4-5. It is unusual to discharge a patient home post gastrectomy until the anastomosis has proven to heal and not leak. That is done by gradually introducing liquids then food slowly. Assessment also involves examining the abdomen, lab results, and vital signs.

Impossible: There is absolutely no way that could be an outpatient surgery. I would be curious to know who gave you the bad information. Sometimes nurses or testing staff will see laparoscopic gastrectomy and think cholecystectomy as this is a common outpatient procedure. I am sure your doctor told you this is not an outpatient procedure. You will be in the hospital several days. Good luck.

Concerning..: Performing a laparoscopic gastrectomy for cancer is a highly complex operation, so your doctor should be an expert in this field with a lot of experience prior to attempting this procedure. However it is not an outpatient operation, and you should expect to stay in hospital 2-3 days at least.

Doubtful: A properly performed gastrectomy for cancer, open or laparoscopically, is a significant surgical undertaking. It requires removal of a large part of the stomach and extensive removal of surrounding lymph node tissue. Furthermore, the remaining stomach has to be surgically attached to another segment of GI tract, usually small bowel. Recovery and care require a few inpatient days.