It is a type of cancer that occurs in the last part of the large intestine (rectum). It is usually of the adenocarcinoma type. It develops with the uncontrolled proliferation of cells in the inner surface of the rectum. Rectal cancer surgeryis the basic treatment method depending on the stage and spread of the disease.
Who is Suitable for Rectal Cancer Surgery?
Surgery is one of the first and most effective treatment methods for patients diagnosed with rectal cancer. However, this surgical procedure may not be suitable for every patient. The feasibility of surgery depends on many factors such as the patient's general health, the stage of the cancer, the size and location of the tumor.
Surgery is usually preferred if rectal cancer is in the early stages, when the cancer has not yet spread to surrounding tissues or lymph nodes.
In such patients, complete recovery can be achieved by removing the cancerous tissue. Whether the tumor is in the lower, middle or upper part of the rectum affects the type of surgery.
More extensive surgery may be required, especially for larger tumors located in the lower part of the rectum.
In order for the surgery to be successful, the patient's general health must be at a level that can tolerate the operation. Before the surgery, a risk assessment is made according to the patient's age and chronic diseases.
If the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes but can be controlled, surgery may be appropriate. However, in cases of distant metastases, surgery is usually limited to a palliative approach.
In advanced stage patients, if the tumor has been reduced with chemotherapy and radiotherapy, surgical intervention may be performed.
In conclusion, rectal cancer surgery, the patient's condition is evaluated in detail. It is then applied to suitable individuals. This decision is determined by the multidisciplinary approach of the surgeon, oncologist and other specialists.
How is Rectal Cancer Surgery Performed?
Rectal cancer surgery, is the removal of cancerous tissue and cleaning with lymph nodes. The method of surgery is determined by the location and size of the tumor, the stage of the cancer and the general health of the patient. Surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia. Techniques such as open surgery, laparoscopic surgery or robotic surgery can be used.
Before the surgery, detailed examinations are performed (MRI, CT, PET scans) and the patient's intestines are cleaned for the surgery. Surgical planning is made according to the location of the tumor and the general condition of the patient.
In Local Excision, a portion of the rectum is removed for small, superficial tumors. This method is preferred if the tumor has not deeply invaded the rectal wall.
For tumors in the middle and upper part of the rectum, the cancerous part of the rectum is removed. The remaining ends of the intestine are tied together. The LAR method usually does not require a permanent colostomy.
If the tumor is located in the lower part of the rectum, the rectum, anus, and surrounding tissues are completely removed. The APR method requires a permanent colostomy bag.
In advanced stages, if the cancer has spread to surrounding organs, these organs may also be removed. During surgery, the cancerous tissue and surrounding healthy tissue margins are carefully removed.
Surrounding lymph nodes are also removed to check for spread of the cancer. If possible, the ends of the bowel are reattached, but if this is not possible, a colostomy may be performed.
After the surgery, the patient is monitored in the hospital for a few days. Diet adjustments, normalization of bowel movements, and pain control are provided. The success of the surgery depends on the stage of the cancer and the completeness of the removed tissue.
After Rectal Cancer Surgery
Rectal cancer surgery The recovery process after surgery depends on a variety of factors. This process includes physical recovery after surgery and restoration of bowel function. Additionally, additional treatments may be administered to prevent the risk of cancer recurrence.
Painkillers are used after surgery. The level of pain may vary depending on the surgical method used.
For the first few days, the patient is usually fed a liquid diet. As bowel movements return to normal, solid foods are introduced.
It may take time for bowel movements to return to normal after surgery. Sometimes changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation or gas problems) may be observed.
After discharge from the hospital, the recovery process continues at home. Stitches should be checked regularly and kept clean to prevent infection. Heavy physical activity should be avoided after surgery. Recovery should be supported with light exercises.
If a permanent or temporary colostomy was made during surgery, this is explained to the patient. Education is also given about the care and use of the colostomy bag.
Chemotherapy may be used after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells. Radiotherapy is used in advanced cases to reduce the risk of cancer recurring.
Regular checkups with your doctor after surgery are important. Blood tests, imaging tests, and colonoscopy may be performed to monitor the risk of recurrence.
Thanks to these checks, any problems can be detected at an early stage. Rectal cancer surgery Patience and compliance with doctor's recommendations after the procedure accelerates the healing process. It increases the quality of life.
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