Colon Cancer Specialist

What type of surgery should I have for colon cancer?

The type of surgery the team at Chicago Surgical Clinic recommends for colon cancer depends on the location and stage of the cancer. Small, early stage polyps can be removed during a colonoscopy if the cancer remains localized to the polyp. Larger polyps may require removal of the polyp, as well as some of the inner lining of the colon, via an endoscopic mucosal resection.

More advanced colon cancer is often addressed with a partial colectomy. This procedure involves removing the portion of the colon that has cancer, as well as a margin of tissue on either side to help ensure removal of small spreading cells. The colon is then sewn back together.

This procedure can often be performed using minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, which requires only a few small incisions compared to the longer incisions used for invasive open surgery.

Are there other surgeries associated with colon cancer?

Nearby lymph nodes are sometimes removed during colon cancer surgery so that they can be screened for cancer that may have spread (metastasized).

Sometimes it is not possible to reconnect healthy portions of your colon after a colectomy. In that case, you may need a colostomy. This surgical procedure involves creating an opening, or stoma, in the wall of your abdomen and diverting a loop of the colon to the opening so that stool can be eliminated into a bag that fits securely over the stoma.

A colostomy is often a temporary measure that allows your colon or rectum time to heal. When appropriate, your surgeon at Chicago Surgical Clinic can perform a colostomy reversal surgery that restores the normal elimination of stool.

Is surgery different for rectal cancer?

Rectal cancer can be diagnosed on colonoscopy or physical exam. Because the rectum is so close to organs and other structures in your pelvic cavity, surgery for rectal cancer is often highly complex. Thanks to advances in treatment and technology over the last several decades, rectal cancer is now curable in many cases. The surgeons at Chicago Surgical Clinic have the skill and experience necessary for these complicated procedures.

Your surgeon will discuss your treatment options in detail before scheduling surgery for colorectal cancer. Once you’ve undergone surgery, you can also expect to return to Chicago Surgical Clinic regularly for surveillance check-ups  and monitoring for recurrent cancer.

Schedule a visit at Chicago Surgical Clinic online or by phone today for further discussion of colorectal cancer surgery.