Colon and Rectal Cancer Surgery

What is colon and rectal cancer?

All of the body’s cells normally grow, divide, and then die in order to keep the body healthy and functioning properly.  Sometimes this process gets out of control: cells keep growing and dividing even when they are supposed to die.  When the cells lining of the large intestine multiply uncontrolled, colorectal cancer may ultimately develop.  Colorectal cancer ranks as the second to third most common cancer in the world depending on the geographic location.  It affects both men and women.  In the USA approximately 1 in 20 people will develop colorectal cancer.

How is colon and rectal cancer treated?

Colorectal cancer can be cured when caught in early stages.  The main treatment modality for most patients is surgery although some patients with very early cancer or precancerous polyps can be treated with endoscopic removal without scars, a technique offered by Dr. Maher Abbas. Surgery to remove the cancer along with the lymph nodes (glands) is necessary for a potential cure.   Minimally invasive surgical techniques such as laparoscopic camera (keyhole) surgery and endoscopic surgery are offered by Dr. Maher Abbas, a highly specialized surgeon and leader in minimally invasive surgery techniques and Laparoscopic Camera Surgery.

Most but not all patients with colorectal cancer can benefit from surgery.  Surgery entails removal of the tumor with a portion of the bowel including the blood vessels and attached lymph nodes.  The operation has to be performed by an expert colorectal cancer surgeon to ensure proper removal of all the lymph glands surrounding the tumor.  This type of surgery allows for potential cure and accurate staging of the cancer.  Patients with cancer located in the colon may require chemotherapy which is typically offered after surgery although in a select group of patients it may be given before surgery.  Patients with cancer of the rectum, the last portion of the large intestine [Figure 1] are treated differently than patients with colon cancer.  Depending on the stage of the cancer of the rectum, chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be used before and after the surgery.  Patient outcome is strongly associated with colorectal cancer stage at the time of diagnosis.

Figure 1 – Large intestine

Is colon and rectal cancer curable?

Cancer confined to the lining of the large intestine is associated with the highest likelihood of success and cure.  Early detection through screening methods like colonoscopy is crucial.  Follow-up care after treatment for colorectal cancer is important.  Even when the cancer appears to have been completely removed, the disease may recur.  Dr. Maher Abbas will monitor your recovery and check for cancer recurrence at specific intervals. Blood tests, clinical examinations and imaging tests may be performed based on the stage of the cancer.

Why is important to seek a board certified colorectal surgeon?

Cancer of the colon and rectum requires a high degree of expertise in cancer care.  The cancer needs to be treated properly for best long-term outcome.  Dr.  Maher Abbas is an American Board Certified colon and rectal surgeon with extensive expertise in colon and rectal surgery.   He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery.  He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons.  To date Dr. Maher Abbas has performed over 14,000 operations and procedures.

If you like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Maher Abbas to learn more about the surgical options for colorectal cancer surgery Click here.