Surgery for Colon Cancer

Surgery is the main treatment for colon cancer. The most common is a segmental resection.

Segmental Resection
This surgery removes the cancer, along with the nearby lymph nodes and a length of normal tissue on either side of the cancer. The remaining two ends of the colon are then reattached. It is rare for a colon resection to cause major problems with digestive functioning. If a tumour is very large and blocks the colon, a stent may be used to clear the blockage before surgery. In some cases, when this is not possible, a temporary colostomy may be needed.

Colostomy
This is a procedure in which an opening in the abdomen is made, in order to expel body waste. A colostomy is not usually needed for colon cancer, although a temporary colostomy may sometimes be necessary.

Polypectomy
Some cancerous polyps and cancers that are found early can be removed with a colonoscope. Polypectomies can be performed without cutting through the abdomen.

Laparoscopic Surgery
Laparoscopic surgery (also called keyhole surgery) removes parts of the colon and the nearby lymph nodes, using a laparoscope. This thin instrument, which has a small telescope and video camera, is inserted through small incisions in the abdomen. It allows your doctor to see and remove the cancerous part of your colon. Patients recover more quickly from laparoscopic surgery than from conventional surgery. It does, however, require a more skilled surgeon.

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