Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery
About Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery
Laparoscopic colorectal surgery is a technique which involves operations on the colon and rectum through 4 or 5 small incisions.
A laparoscope (a narrow tube having a tiny camera) is inserted through the incision which gives me an enlarged image of the internal organs on a television screen.
Through long thin instruments as well as more advanced devices that use energy and staplers I am able to remove very large and long segments of the bowel, colon or rectum through small incisions.
Colorectal surgery is for many conditions including colon and rectum cancer, diverticula disease, large polyps that are not amenable to endoscopic removal, conditions of appendix or small bowel, twisting of bowel (volvulus).
Further information about Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery
What are the benefits of laparoscopic surgery?
Laparoscopic colorectal surgery has improvements in recovery, time back to work and normal activities. There is also a reduction in internal scar tissue and hernia rate compared to open surgery.
How is colorectal cancer managed?
Colorectal cancer is most commonly diagnosed at time of colonoscopy.
Following this blood tests and scans are arranged to test if there is any spread and to look at the cancer in more detail. Most colorectal cancer is detected at a point where surgery with an aim to cure can be performed.
Sometimes for rectal cancer, it is recommended to have radiation treatment and chemotherapy prior to considering surgery. All of these points can be discussed in detail at the time of an appointment.
What can I do to prepare for surgery?
Keeping fit and active is very important.
Prior to surgery the colon needs to be cleansed with bowel preparation. I also prescribe oral antibiotics along with the bowel preparation.