Colon cancer surgery is a primary method for treating cancer that forms in the large intestine. The goal of this surgical intervention is to remove cancerous tissue, and in many cases, it offers the most effective path toward managing the disease. Understanding the role of surgery, alongside other potential treatments, is a key step for patients and their families when navigating a colon cancer diagnosis. Here’s more information on colon cancer surgery:
How Is Colon Cancer Diagnosed?
A definitive diagnosis is the first step in creating an effective treatment plan for cancer. Physicians use several methods to determine if colon cancer is present. Diagnostic procedures may begin with blood tests to look for specific markers or imaging tests, like CT scans, to view the colon and surrounding organs.
The most direct diagnostic tool is a colonoscopy, which allows a doctor to examine the entire length of the colon. During a colonoscopy, a specialist can identify abnormal growths, called polyps, and take tissue samples for a biopsy. If the biopsy confirms the presence of cancer, further tests will determine the cancer’s stage. This information helps the medical team decide if surgery is the recommended course of action. Colon cancer surgery is often recommended for early-stage cancers to remove the tumor before it spreads.
Colon cancer may present with a variety of signs and symptoms, though they may initially be subtle or mistaken for less serious conditions. Some common symptoms include:
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Stool Consistency Changes
- Unexplained Weight Loss
- Fatigue
Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding, abdominal discomfort such as cramps or pain, and the sensation of incomplete bowel emptying are also potential indicators. Some individuals with colon cancer may not exhibit noticeable symptoms in the early stages, which is why routine screenings, like colonoscopies, are key for early detection and effective treatment. If any of these symptoms persist, consult a healthcare professional promptly.
What Surgeries Treat This Cancer?
The type of surgery performed depends on the size, location, and stage of the cancer. The treatment objective is to remove the tumor completely, along with a margin of healthy tissue and nearby lymph nodes, to remove as many cancerous cells as possible. There are two standard surgeries for colon cancer treatment: A partial colectomy or an ostomy.
Partial Colectomy
A partial colectomy is the most common surgical procedure for colon cancer. During this operation, the surgeon removes the section of the colon containing the tumor as well as a small amount of healthy tissue on either side. After the cancerous segment is removed, the surgeon then reconnects the healthy ends of the colon. This procedure is usually performed through laparoscopic techniques through several small incisions using specialized tools. An open colectomy may be necessary for some individuals, however.
Ostomy
In some situations, it is not possible to reconnect the ends of the colon immediately after removing the tumor. An ostomy is a surgery that creates an opening, or stoma, from an intestine to the outside of the abdomen. This opening allows waste to leave the body and be collected in a pouch, called an ostomy bag. An ostomy may be temporary to allow the colon to heal after surgery, or it may be permanent.
What Other Treatments May Be Necessary?
Surgery is often part of a broader treatment plan that may include other therapies to target and destroy cancer cells. For some patients, radiation therapy may be used before surgery to shrink a tumor, making it easier to remove. This therapy can also be used after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells.
Chemotherapy involves the use of powerful drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body, and it can be administered either before or after surgery. This treatment is often recommended for more advanced cancers or when the cancer has spread. The combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy is tailored to each individual’s specific diagnosis.
Learn More About Colon Cancer Surgery
Surgical procedures, along with radiation and chemotherapy, form the foundation of colon cancer healthcare. Each treatment plan is unique, so it is fundamental to have detailed discussions with a qualified healthcare team. They can provide personalized information based on your specific medical situation and guide you through the treatment process. Contact a colon cancer specialist today to schedule a consultation and learn about your digestive health.
