Colectomy for Colorectal Cancer
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A colon resection (colectomy) is an inpatient procedure involving the surgical excision of the cancerous portion(s) of your colon. This may involve all or part of the colon, depending on your individual situation. A partial colectomy is when only part of the colon is removed.
To ensure all of the cancerous tissue is removed, your surgical oncologist at Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) will also remove a small portion, or margin, of healthy colon tissue. Your surgical oncologist will also remove a number of nearby lymph nodes during the colectomy surgery. A pathologist will then study these nodes for the presence of cancer and to properly stage your cancer.
Laparoscopic colectomy
In a laparoscopic colectomy, your surgical oncologist will make a small incision above your belly button and several small “keyhole” incisions around the abdominal cavity. These tiny incisions provide vital access points for the laparoscope (a thin tube equipped with a camera) and other surgical instruments.
A laparoscopic colectomy may be an option for certain colon cancer patients. This minimally invasive procedure is an alternative to conventional colorectal cancer surgery. It reduces recovery time and scarring compared to a non-laparoscopic colectomy.
Colostomy
Depending on the extent of your colectomy surgery, you may need to have a temporary or permanent colostomy. A colostomy is needed when your surgeon cannot reconnect the healthy portions of the colon. During this surgical procedure, a segment of your colon will be attached to the skin of the abdomen. Your doctor will then create an artificial opening (called a stoma) in your lower abdomen to allow your body to eliminate waste.
Complementary medicine therapies
At CTCA, we also provide supportive care, including personalized nutrition programs, naturopathic medicine, physical therapy, mind-body medicine and spiritual support. These supportive therapies may help minimize the trauma of surgery and boost your energy levels.
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