Surgical Treatment

Surgery is often the main treatment for earlier stage colorectal cancer. The surgery is called a bowel resection. This operation involves cutting into the abdomen to reach the area of the colon or rectum that is affected by the cancer. The surgeon cuts out the cancer as well as the parts of the colon or rectum that are next to it. Then the two healthy ends of the colon or rectum are sewn back together.

Some very early colon cancers (stage 0 and some early stage I tumors) or polyps can be removed using a colonoscope. When this is done, the surgeon does not have to cut into the abdomen. Early stage cancers that are only on the surface of the colon lining can be removed along with a small amount of nearby tissue. For a polypectomy, the cancer is cut out across the base of the polyp's stalk, the area that looks like the stem of a mushroom.

Minimally Invasive Surgery

Where appropriate, we offer a minimally-invasive surgical approach to the treatment of colorectal cancer. Such an approach can ultimately reduce post-operative pain and medication levels, speed the return of bowel function, and deliver a smaller incision, and therefore, improved cosmetic results.

It is important to remember, however, that not all patients are candidates for laparoscopic or other minimally invasive forms of surgery. Your surgeon will be able to provide you with the most appropriate treatment options for your individual situation.

For more information or to make an appointment please call
1-877-233-WELL (9355).