Colorectal surgery involves surgical procedures to treat diseases and conditions of the colon, rectum, and anus. This specialized area of surgery addresses a wide range of issues, including colorectal cancer, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and hemorrhoids. Colorectal surgery may be performed for both cancerous and non-cancerous conditions, and the procedures can range from minimally invasive techniques to more complex open surgeries.
Colorectal surgery is often necessary when non-surgical treatments, such as medications or lifestyle changes, are not effective in managing the condition. Common reasons for colorectal surgery include:
Colorectal Cancer: Surgery to remove cancerous tumors and affected sections of the colon or rectum.
Diverticulitis: Surgery to remove sections of the colon affected by diverticula that have become inflamed or infected.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Surgery for Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis that has caused damage to the colon or rectum.
Hemorrhoids: Surgery to remove or repair severe or recurring hemorrhoids.
Colon Polyps: Removal of large or suspicious polyps that cannot be safely removed during a colonoscopy.
Symptoms of colorectal issues vary depending on the condition, but common signs that may require surgical intervention include:
Chronic Abdominal Pain: Persistent pain in the lower abdomen, often associated with diverticulitis, Crohn’s disease, or colorectal cancer.
Rectal Bleeding: Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding, which can be a sign of colorectal cancer, polyps, or hemorrhoids.
Bowel Habit Changes: Sudden changes in bowel movements, such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrow stools, which may indicate a blockage or other issue.
Unexplained Weight Loss: Significant, unexplained weight loss can be a sign of colorectal cancer.
Chronic Fatigue: Ongoing fatigue may indicate anemia due to colorectal bleeding.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult with a specialist to determine if surgery is necessary.
At Texas Advanced Surgical & Bariatrics, we offer a variety of surgical options for treating colorectal conditions, focusing on minimally invasive techniques whenever possible.
Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery: This minimally invasive procedure uses small incisions and a camera to guide the surgeon in removing diseased sections of the colon or rectum. Laparoscopic surgery typically results in smaller scars, less pain, and faster recovery compared to open surgery.
Robotic Colorectal Surgery: Using advanced robotic technology, our surgeons perform the procedure with enhanced precision and control, resulting in smaller incisions, quicker recovery times, and less post-operative discomfort.
Open Colorectal Surgery: In cases where the condition is more complex or involves larger areas of the colon or rectum, open surgery may be required. This involves making a larger incision to access and remove the affected tissue.
Benefits of Choosing Laparoscopic Surgery
Laparoscopic hernia repair offers smaller incisions, faster recovery, and reduced pain compared to traditional surgery.
For patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer, surgery is often the primary treatment. Our experienced surgeons at Texas Advanced Surgical & Bariatrics will evaluate your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan that may involve the removal of the cancerous tumor, surrounding tissue, and affected lymph nodes. Minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopic and robotic surgery are often used to improve recovery and outcomes.
Recovery times vary depending on the type of surgery performed and the patient’s overall health. Patients who undergo laparoscopic or robotic surgery generally experience quicker recovery and less post-operative pain than those who undergo open surgery. Most patients can return to normal activities within a few weeks, though full recovery may take longer, depending on the complexity of the surgery. Your surgeon will provide specific post-operative care instructions, including guidance on diet, wound care, and activity restrictions.
If you’re experiencing colorectal issues or have been recommended for surgery, contact Texas Advanced Surgical & Bariatrics to schedule a consultation. Our expert team will evaluate your condition and recommend the best surgical option to restore your health and improve your quality of life.
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Not all patients require a colostomy. It depends on the extent of the surgery and the location of the disease. Your surgeon will discuss this with you before the procedure.
Colorectal cancer surgery involves removing the cancerous section of the colon or rectum, along with nearby lymph nodes, to prevent the cancer from spreading.
Yes, changes in bowel habits are common after colorectal surgery, particularly in the weeks following the procedure. This can include diarrhea, constipation, or increased urgency.
Yes, there is a risk of developing a hernia at the incision site after colorectal surgery, particularly if the surgery was open rather than laparoscopic.
Follow-up care may include post-operative appointments with your surgeon, imaging tests to monitor healing, and possibly consultations with an oncologist if cancer was involved.