Laparoscopic Surgery for Colon Cancer
When surgery is used for treating colon cancer, laparoscopic methods can be used. What this means is that rather than doing a colectomy as an open surgery through a single long incision, a surgeon can do the procedure through several smaller incisions using special tools for a minimally invasive approach.
What to expect
Laparoscopic surgery for colon cancer calls for highly specialized expertise, so it’s important to undergo this form of surgery at a high-volume cancer center like Moffitt, where surgeons have more experience. Our Gastrointestinal Oncology Program comprises surgical oncologists who are experts in the treatment of colon cancer, specifically. They are among the few surgeons across the entire country who perform laparoscopic surgery for colon cancer on a regular basis.
Pain may be experienced following surgery and can be managed with medication. You may be restricted to a liquid diet following surgery, but most people can move on to solid foods in just a few days.
How laparoscopic colon surgery is performed
The surgeon makes several small incisions in the abdomen. A laparoscope, which is a long, thin instrument with a camera and light on the end, is inserted into one of the incisions to allow the surgeon to see the surgical site. Through the other incisions, the surgeon uses small surgical tools to remove the cancerous portion of the colon.
Benefits of laparoscopic surgery
There are a number of benefits to using a laparoscopic approach for colon cancer surgery. Because the surgeon uses smaller incisions, patients often experience:
- Less blood loss during surgery
- Shorter hospital stays
- Faster recovery times
- Less-noticeable scars
- Decreased pain
- Better pain management
If you would like to discover if laparoscopic surgery is an option for treating your colon cancer, call 1-888-663-3488 or complete our new patient registration form online. Referrals are not required to visit Moffitt and consult with our oncologists specializing in colon cancer.