Introduction
A surgeon uses either open or minimally invasive surgery depending on the particular case. Minimally invasive surgery is an evolving field; each year brings new information about it.
How is Minimally Invasive Surgery different from open surgery?
In open surgeries, surgeons cut about 6-12 inches, and the scar stays for life.
Minimally invasive surgery has been designed to perform the operation through minor cuts. It reduces the discomfort and complications which happen with open surgery. Minimally invasive treatment is very effective in treating a variety of common benign and malignant colon and rectal illnesses.
Minimally Invasive Treatment Options for Colon Cancer
The two options are laparoscopy and robotic-assisted surgery. Both are used by surgeons for removing tumors by using a camera and specialized instruments. The surgery is done by introducing surgical equipment into the small cuts.
Laparoscopy
Introduced 20 years ago, laparoscopic colorectal surgery has shown its effectiveness consistently. Compared to open surgery, it has long-term survival rates.
For usual laparoscopic surgery for colon cancer, the surgeons make 2-3 minor cuts about a centimeter in size. Another 4-5 centimeter cut is usually made near the belly button for removing the specimen. For single-incision laparoscopy, one tiny cut is made at the belly button.
Robotic-assisted surgery
It is very similar to laparoscopy. Robotic arms are used for this, which are controlled by the surgeon. Camera and surgical tools are attached to the robotic arms. There are usually 4 minor cuts made for the surgery and one larger cut for removing the specimen. The surgeon uses a highly magnified, 3D image of the patient’s organs for performing the surgery, says one of the best colon cancer doctors in Kolkata.
What are the benefits of Minimally Invasive Surgery?
Minimally invasive surgery is recommended by many surgeons. Most of them say that there are no drawbacks to this operation. Some of the benefits are mentioned below
- Shorter stay in the hospital
- Less post-operative pain
- Less visible scar
- Requires the same amount of time as usual open surgeries
- Less blood loss
- Lower infection rate
- Lower risk of abdominal hernia
When should you opt for Minimally Invasive Surgery?
Studies have shown that minimally invasive surgery is an ideal option for colon cancer if performed properly. People who have colon cancer are usually suggested to get laparoscopic surgery if cancer has not spread far off the rectum. We have listed down a few factors which can help decide if the patient can get minimally invasive surgery safely or not
- Medical history
- Surgical history
- Traits of the disease
5 Questions to ask your doctor before considering Minimally Invasive Surgery for colon cancer treatment
- Is minimally invasive surgery beneficial for me?
- Am I ideal for minimally invasive surgery?
- Are there any chances of you converting to traditional surgery and what will happen if you do so?
- What are the restrictions I need to follow post-operation?
- What will happen if I don’t get any treatment done?
If you have colon cancer, you can contact one of the best colon cancer doctors in Kolkata, Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik.