Outcomes of gastric cancer resections performed in a high volume community cancer center

BackgroundLarge University Hospitals are usually the referral centers for complex surgical procedures. However, the majority of cancer care takes place in the community hospital. The aim of this study was to analyze the morbidity, mortality and long-term survival of gastric cancer patients after the establishment of a multidisciplinary gastric cancer team in an academic community hospital.MethodsA retrospective review of medical records was performed for patients who presented with gastric cancer from 2005 to 2013. Thirty-day morbidity and mortality were assessed for patients who underwent gastrectomy with curative intent. Long-term survival was determined by Kaplan–Meier analysis.ResultsNinety-one patients underwent curative resection over an 8-year period. Eighty-seven patients (96%) had an R0 resection. Mean lymph node recovery was 20. Serious morbidity rate was reported in 10/91 (11%). Mortality in the series was 3/91 (3%). Five-year survival by stage was similar to AJCC reported survival.ConclusionComplex surgical resections for gastric cancer can be safely performed at a high volume community cancer center with minimal morbidity and mortality.