Colon and Colon Cancer Surgery

Overview

Colon (large intestine) cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the large intestine section of the digestive system. If colon cancer is diagnosed early, it has a high chance of being treated. It usually develops from benign growths called polyps and can turn into cancer over time. Colon cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the world, and the treatment process varies depending on the stage of the cancer and the general health of the patient.

When is Colon Cancer Surgery Necessary?

Surgery is the most effective way to treat colon cancer. Surgical treatment is used in the following cases:

Early Stage Cancer: If the cancer has not yet spread, complete removal of the tumor can be achieved through surgery.

Locally Advanced Cancer: If the tumor has not spread beyond the colon, surgery may still be the main treatment option.

Metastatic Cancer: Even if the cancer has spread to other organs, surgical treatment can be performed in some cases, especially if there is metastasis to the liver or lungs, surgery can be planned for these areas.

Types of Colon Cancer Surgery

The methods used in colon cancer surgery vary depending on the location, size, and spread of the cancer. The main surgical procedures include:

Polypectomy and Local Resection: In early-stage colon cancer, cancerous polyps can be removed during a colonoscopy. If the cancer is very small and only in the inner layer of the colon, this minimally invasive procedure may be sufficient.

Colectomy: In this procedure, the cancerous part of the colon and surrounding healthy tissue are removed. Colectomy is usually done in two different ways:

Partial Colectomy (Segmental Resection): The cancerous section of the colon and a small portion of surrounding tissue are removed.

Total Colectomy: In rare cases, the entire colon is removed. This is usually preferred in cases of widespread cancer or multiple tumors.

Laparoscopic Surgery: In this method, small incisions are made in the abdomen and the surgical procedure is performed with the help of a camera. Laparoscopic surgery provides a faster recovery time compared to open surgery.

Open Surgery: In cases where the cancer has spread over a larger area or is technically more challenging, open surgery is preferred.

Surgical Process and Recovery

Colon cancer surgery usually takes 2-4 hours and, depending on the patient's condition, may require a few days in the hospital after surgery. Post-operative recovery depends on the type of surgery and the patient's overall health.

Things to consider during the recovery process:

Diet: A liquid and soft diet is recommended in the first days after surgery. Over time, solid foods are introduced.

Physical Activity: Light physical activities such as walking slowly are recommended after surgery. Strenuous activities such as heavy lifting should be avoided.

Wound Care: Your doctor's recommendations should be followed to keep the surgical areas clean and protected from infection.

Colostomy or Ileostomy

In some cases, the surgeon may remove a section of the intestine and not be able to reattach the rest of the intestine normally. In these cases, an opening (stoma) may be created to allow stool to exit the body. A stoma allows the contents of the intestine to be removed from the body through a bag, and this may be temporary or permanent.

Colostomy: This is done when a portion of the colon is removed and the normal bowel cannot continue.

Ileostomy: This is done to divert stool from a higher section of the intestine. This is preferred when the entire colon has been removed.

Possible Risks of Surgery

Colon cancer surgery, like any other surgery, carries certain risks, including:

Infection: Infection may develop in the surgical area or in the abdomen.

Bleeding: Bleeding may occur during or after surgery.

Intestinal Obstruction: Obstruction may occur in the intestines and this may require additional intervention.

Anastomotic Leak: When the two ends of the intestine are joined, leakage can occur at this junction.

Post-Operative Follow-up and Care

The post-operative follow-up process is very important. Regular check-ups after surgery monitor the healing process and evaluate the risk of cancer recurrence. The course of the disease is closely monitored with blood tests, colonoscopy and imaging studies.

Conclusion

Colon cancer surgery is key to treating the disease and is often the most effective method to completely eliminate cancer. Op. Dr. Çağlar Ertekin and his team focus on achieving the best results with minimally invasive techniques in this type of surgery. The expert team will guide you through every stage of your treatment process and help you regain your health by creating the most appropriate treatment plan for you.