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Rectal cancer surgery is one of the key procedures that many oncologists will include in their colorectal cancer patients' treatment plans. If you or a loved one has just been diagnosed with this cancer, chances are you'll have this surgery soon.
Here are a few things your colorectal cancer specialist would like you to know about this treatment.
5 Things About Colorectal Cancer Surgeries You Should Know
The Two Types of Rectal Cancer Surgery
There are several surgical procedures for removing rectal cancer. But we can sort them into two main categories: transanal local excisions and resections. Your oncologist will determine the most suitable surgery based on how advanced your cancer is.
Transanal Local Excisions
These refer to minimally invasive surgeries wherein the surgeon inserts equipment through the anus. They then remove a small part of the rectum that has the cancerous tumour. This procedure is typically used for early-stage rectal cancers as the cancer has not spread to other organs yet.
Resections
These surgeries are used for more advanced colorectal cancers. Here, the surgeon removes the cancerous section of the rectum. They then connect the colon and the remaining part of the rectum. In some instances, the surgeon will create a stoma with an ileostomy bag at the end to collect your waste while the new connection heals.
However, if the rectum cannot be used again, the surgeon will attach a permanent colostomy bag.
How Do You Prepare for Colorectal Cancer Surgery?
Your colorectal cancer specialist will give you specific instructions on preparing for your rectal cancer surgery. However, you should expect advice such as:
Fasting and consuming clear liquids only before the surgery
Taking laxatives to flush out all the waste from your
Doing an enema to empty your bowels further
The surgeon will want your colon and rectum to be as clean as possible so they can see the affected area more clearly and minimise infections.
More Colorectal Surgeries Now Include Robots
Nervous about the surgeon making mistakes? Fear not -- many surgeries in Singapore are now done with robotic assistance and have helped reduce the incidence of colorectal cancer surgery failures. Robots help surgeons make less painful and more precise cuts to reduce scarring and complications.
Do You Always Need a Permanent Stoma After Surgery?
Not all rectal cancer patients need a permanent stoma after their surgery. It is usually only necessary when the cancer affects your sphincter, which would prevent you from controlling your bowels. Otherwise, you only need the stoma until the new connection between your colon and rectum has healed.
Early Screening Helps With Your Rectal Cancer Surgery's Success
Bowel cancers can go undetected for a long time because they often display no symptoms until they are already at a later stage. We therefore recommend that you get screened regularly, especially if you are in your forties. Your risk of having these cancers gets higher as you age.
If the rectal cancer gets detected early on, you have a better chance of going into remission with only the surgery and minimal to no radiation or chemotherapy.
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience some of the signs linked to colorectal cancer, such as:
Bleeding coming out from the anus or blood in your stool
Narrow stools and severe diarrhoea or constipation
Consistent abdominal pain
Sudden weight loss
Conclusion
The idea of undergoing rectal cancer surgery can be daunting for anybody. But being well-informed about this procedure can help you and your loved ones feel readier and more confident about the challenges ahead.
If you have any questions about your cancer treatment, know that your colorectal cancer specialist is there to cater to your concerns. They will guide you through each step with your well-being in mind.
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