Objective:The aim of this study was to compare the safety and effectiveness of routine drainage and no-drainage regimes after selective gastric cancer surgery. Methods:All patients received selective D2 gastric cancer resection, and were randomized divided into two groups: group I (no-drains,P=51),group Ⅱ (with drains,n=49).The incidence of anastomotic leak and complications specific to the drain as well as other complications were compared in 2 groups. Results:The mean length of postoperative stay was (9.6±2.4) d in group I and (10.4±2.4)d in group Ⅱ (P>0.05),and postoperative days for oral intake were (5.1±1.6)d in group Ⅰ and (5.6±2.3) d in group Ⅱ (P>0.05).No significant difference was noted in the incidence of postoperative complication between the no-drain group and the drain group (9.8% vs 12.2%,P>0.05). Conclusion:Routine abdominal drainage after gastric cancer surgery to prevent anastomotic and other complications is unnecessary.