Colon and Rectal Cancer

Types of surgical procedures for patients with colon or rectal cancer include:

• Colectomy: This procedure entails removing the part of the colon with the tumor and nearby tissues containing lymph nodes. I frequently perform this type of surgery with minimally invasive techniques (laparoscopy), which allow for less pain, faster recovery and superior cosmetic results.

For advanced rectal cancers, a low anterior resection may be required. This procedure entails removing the rectum and part of the colon. Radiation and chemotherapy often precede surgery. The rectum is removed, and the colon is attached to the area just above the anal sphincter muscles. Our surgeons can remove even very low (distal) rectal cancers in order to avoid a permanent colostomy.