Colon cancer surgery is one of the main treatments for colorectal cancer. The type of surgery performed depends on the stage of the cancer. Somerset Surgical Associates, LLC, in Somerville, New Jersey, uses state-of-the-art techniques when performing colorectal cancer surgery to give the best possible outcomes. Call the office or schedule your colon cancer surgery consultation online today.
request an appointmentWhat is colorectal cancer?
Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the colon (colon cancer) or rectum (rectal cancer). These types of cancers have many similarities and are often grouped together.
The colon absorbs water and any remaining nutrients from food waste. The waste then goes to the rectum and leaves your body through the anus.
In most cases, colorectal cancer starts as a polyp (benign growth) that forms on the inner wall of the colon or rectum. When left untreated, these benign growths may turn into cancer.
A colonoscopy is a diagnostic screening test that looks for and removes these polyps, reducing your risk of colorectal cancer.
What are the types of colorectal cancer surgeries?
There are many types of colorectal cancer surgeries. The procedure best suited for you depends on the location and stage of your cancer. If you have only colon or rectal polyps, your provider may perform a minimally invasive procedure to remove them.
If you have a large tumor, your provider at Somerset Surgical Associates, LLC, may perform a:
Hemicolectomy
During a hemicolectomy, your surgeon removes the section of your colon that contains the cancerous tumor and reattaches the remaining sections of your colon. They also remove the nearby lymph nodes.
Total colectomy
A total colectomy is the removal of your entire colon. Most patients with colon cancer don’t need a total colectomy.
Transanal excision (TAE)
For early-stage rectal cancer, the surgeons at Somerset Surgical Associates, LLC, may perform a TAE, cutting through the rectal wall to remove the cancer and surrounding healthy tissue.
Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM)
For rectal cancer higher up in the rectum, the surgeons may perform TEM, using special instruments to see and remove the cancer.
Low anterior resection (LAR)
For LAR, the surgeons remove the section of the rectum containing the tumor and reattach the colon to the part of the rectum that remains.
Proctectomy
A proctectomy is the surgical removal of the entire rectum. The surgeon then attaches the colon to the anus, colon-anal anastomosis.
When performing colorectal cancer surgery, Somerset Surgical Associates, LLC, uses minimally invasive laparoscopic or robotic surgery to reduce incision sizes and recovery time.
What can I expect during recovery from colorectal cancer surgery?
Your provider at Somerset Surgical Associates, LLC, customizes your colorectal cancer surgery plan and reviews what you can expect during recovery at your pre-surgical evaluation.
Recovery time varies depending on the extent of your surgery. You may need to remain in the hospital for a set period of time following your procedure so that your surgeon can monitor the return of bowel function.
Once at home, you can expect some pain. Your provider may recommend you follow a special diet and limit heavy lifting.
To find out more about surgery for colorectal cancer, schedule a consultation at Somerset Surgical Associates, LLC, by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.
