Rectal Cancer

For early-stage rectal cancer with small tumors confined to the inner lining of the rectum, a polypectomy or local excision may be sufficient. In a polypectomy, the surgeon removes the polyp (a small, non-cancerous growth) and a small margin of surrounding tissue. Local excision involves the removal of the cancerous tumor and a limited amount of nearby healthy tissue. These less invasive procedures can offer a favorable outcome with reduced impact on the patient's overall quality of life and are often considered when the cancer is detected in its early stages.

Transanal Excision (TAE) is a minimally invasive surgical technique specifically designed for managing small, early-stage rectal tumors situated in proximity to the anus. This rectal cancer treatment not only effectively targets the tumor but also prioritizes patient comfort and sphincter function preservation. During a TAE procedure, the surgeon employs specialized instruments to gain access through the anus, eliminating the need for more extensive surgical interventions. By minimizing the invasiveness of the surgery, TAE offers several advantages, including reduced recovery times, decreased postoperative pain, and shorter hospital stays, which can greatly enhance the patient's overall experience and quality of life.

Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) is an advanced procedure for removing larger or deeper rectal tumors through the anus. Employing a specialized endoscope equipped with a microscope, TEM enhances precision in visualizing and excising the tumor. This minimally invasive technique offers an effective approach to managing rectal cancer with reduced impact on patients. TEM not only enables the removal of challenging rectal tumors through a minimally invasive approach but also reduces the risk of complications and promotes faster recovery, making it a valuable option in the treatment arsenal for rectal cancer.

Low anterior resection (LAR) is a common surgical procedure for mid-to-upper rectal cancer. The surgeons at the best hospital for rectal cancer - Devasya remove the cancerous part of the rectum and reattaches the remaining healthy rectum to the colon, preserving bowel continuity and function. LAR is often recommended to strike a balance between effectively treating the cancer and preserving essential bodily functions, contributing to improved postoperative quality of life for patients.

Proctectomy with Colo-Anal Anastomosis is a comprehensive surgical approach employed in the treatment of rectal cancer. This procedure entails the complete removal of the rectum, and in some cases, a segment of the adjacent colon. Subsequently, the remaining healthy colon is meticulously reconnected to the anus through a process known as colo-anal anastomosis. However, the decision to perform Proctectomy with Colo-Anal Anastomosis depends on the specific characteristics and staging of the rectal cancer, as well as individual patient factors.

Abdominoperineal Resection (APR) is a specialized rectal cancer surgery recommended for tumors located in the lower part of the rectum or situations where sphincter preservation is not viable. This extensive procedure involves the complete removal of the rectum, including the anus, and results in the creation of a permanent colostomy. During a colostomy, a section of the colon is redirected through the abdominal wall to form an opening (stoma) for waste disposal. While APR is a radical approach, it can be life-saving in cases where other surgical options are not suitable.

Pelvic exenteration is a highly intricate rectal cancer surgery reserved for advanced or recurrent cases where the cancer has invaded adjacent pelvic structures. This procedure entails the comprehensive removal of the rectum, bladder, reproductive organs, and a segment of the colon, potentially necessitating the creation of urinary and/or fecal diversion to ensure the patient's postoperative quality of life and functionality. It is often considered a last resort treatment option due to its complexity and potential impact on the patient's overall health and well-being.

In certain scenarios, such as when there is a heightened risk of anastomotic leakage or other postoperative complications following rectal cancer surgery, a diverting colostomy may be instituted. This temporary stoma serves the critical role of rerouting fecal flow away from the surgical site, affording it the necessary time and conditions to heal effectively, and ultimately promoting a smoother recovery process for the patient. This precautionary measure can significantly reduce the risk of complications and enhance the patient's chances of a successful recovery.