Colorectal cancer surgeries are performed to remove cancerous tumors and affected parts of the colon or rectum. The specific surgical approach depends on various factors, such as the stage and location of the cancer, the patient's overall health, and the surgeon's expertise. Here are some common colorectal cancer surgeries:
Local Excision: This procedure is suitable for early-stage colorectal cancers limited to the inner layers of the colon or rectum. It involves the removal of the tumor and a small amount of surrounding healthy tissue using minimally invasive techniques such as endoscopy or transanal excision.
Colectomy: Colectomy is the most common surgery for colorectal cancer. It involves removing a portion of the colon affected by cancer along with nearby lymph nodes. The extent of the colectomy depends on the tumor's location and can range from a segmental colectomy (removal of a section of the colon) to a total colectomy (removal of the entire colon).
a. Partial Colectomy: In this procedure, a segment of the colon containing the tumor is removed, and the remaining ends of the colon are reconnected. This can be done through open surgery, laparoscopic surgery (minimally invasive), or robotic-assisted surgery.
b. Total Colectomy: If the cancer is widespread or affects the entire colon, a total colectomy may be necessary. The surgeon removes the entire colon and sometimes the rectum as well. In such cases, the small intestine is typically connected to an opening in the abdominal wall called a stoma, and a colostomy bag is used to collect waste.
Rectal Resection: When the cancer affects the rectum, a rectal resection is performed. This procedure involves removing the cancerous portion of the rectum and nearby lymph nodes. The remaining healthy rectum is reconnected to the colon or, in some cases, a colostomy is created.
a. Low Anterior Resection (LAR): LAR is commonly performed for rectal cancers located in the upper and middle part of the rectum. The cancerous portion of the rectum is removed, and the remaining healthy rectum is reconnected to the colon. This helps to preserve bowel function.
b. Abdominoperineal Resection (APR): APR is performed for rectal cancers located very low in the rectum or close to the anus. It involves removing the rectum, anus, and sometimes nearby structures. A permanent colostomy is created to allow waste elimination.
Lymphadenectomy: During any colorectal cancer surgery, nearby lymph nodes are often removed to determine if the cancer has spread beyond the primary tumor. This procedure, called lymphadenectomy or lymph node dissection, helps in staging the cancer and planning further treatment.
In addition to these surgeries, other techniques such as laparoscopic-assisted or robot-assisted surgeries may be employed, providing smaller incisions, reduced pain, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stays. The specific surgical approach is determined by the surgeon based on individual patient characteristics and the stage of the cancer. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized information and recommendations regarding colorectal cancer surgeries.
