Robotic Colon and Rectal Cancer Surgery
The colon is the large intestine that surrounds the small intestine. Colon cancer occurs when abnormal cancer cells form in this area. It usually begins as benign polyps in the colon. However, over time, some of these polyps can turn into cancer. Therefore, early detection and removal of polyps are crucial for preventing colon cancer.
Surgical methods play a significant role in the treatment of colon cancer. So, what surgical techniques are used? What should patients expect after surgery? Learn the details to stay informed and protect your health!
What Are the Symptoms of Colon Cancer?
Colon cancer may not show symptoms in its early stages. Symptoms vary depending on the tumor’s size and location in the intestine. Common signs include:
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Constipation or diarrhea lasting more than four weeks
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Blood in the stool
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Persistent abdominal cramps, gas, or pain
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Feeling that the bowel doesn’t empty completely
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Unexplained fatigue or weakness
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Sudden, unexplained weight loss
What Causes Colon Cancer?
The exact cause is unknown, but genetic and environmental factors are believed to play a role. Cancer develops when mutations in cell DNA cause abnormal growth. These mutations may be inherited, increasing cancer risk.
Common Hereditary Colon Cancer Syndromes:
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HNPCC (Lynch Syndrome): Raises risk of colon and other cancers, often before age 50.
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FAP (Familial Adenomatous Polyposis): Causes thousands of polyps in the colon/rectum and leads to high cancer risk before age 40 if untreated.
Genetic testing can help identify these syndromes.
Risk Factors for Colon Cancer
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Unhealthy diet
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Older age
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History of colon cancer
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Chronic bowel inflammation
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Family history
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Lack of physical activity
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Diabetes
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Obesity
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Smoking and alcohol use
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Prior radiation therapy
Diagnostic Methods
Since early-stage colon cancer often lacks symptoms, regular screening is vital.
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Colonoscopy: Visual exam of the intestines; biopsies can be taken.
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Blood Tests: Check for cancer-related substances.
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Imaging (CT, MRI): Assess cancer spread.
Stages of Colon Cancer
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Stage 1: Confined to the colon’s inner lining.
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Stage 2: Spread to colon wall but not lymph nodes.
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Stage 3: Spread to nearby lymph nodes.
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Stage 4: Metastasized to other organs like liver or lungs.
Treatment Options
1. Surgical Methods
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Polyp Removal via Colonoscopy: For early-stage tumors.
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Endoscopic Mucosal Resection: For larger polyps.
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Partial Colectomy: Removal of cancerous section with surrounding tissue.
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Total Colectomy: Entire colon removed.
Surgical Techniques:
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Open Surgery
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Laparoscopic Surgery
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Robotic Surgery
2. Chemotherapy
Used to kill cancer cells, often after surgery to reduce recurrence risk.
3. Radiotherapy
Targets cancer cells with high-energy beams, used before/after surgery or for symptom relief in advanced stages.
4. Targeted Therapy
Drugs that attack specific mutations in advanced cases; used alone or with chemotherapy.
5. Palliative Care
Improves quality of life with pain and symptom management.
TREATMENTS
