What to Expect During Minimally Invasive Colorectal Cancer Surgery: A Patient’s Guide

Getting diagnosed with colorectal cancer can naturally make an individual feel panicked. However, advancements in colorectal cancer surgery, especially minimally invasive techniques, have led to improved treatment outcomes and increased survival rates.

A recent development in the field of oncology is the laparoscopic method to perform surgical intervention. The approach not only kills the cancer cells effectively but also reduces the physical trauma to the body.

But for many patients, the thought of going under the knife can be frightening. Understanding what to expect before, during and after the procedure can help patients prepare for the surgery and somewhat reduce the anxiety.

This guide explains the process of minimally invasive colorectal cancer surgery, highlights the benefits of the laparoscopic procedure and explains the importance of choosing a surgeon with advanced surgical training, such as fellowship programs like FALS (Fellowship in Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery), which can contribute to improved outcomes. It also acknowledges the clinical contributions of surgeons such as Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik in advancing colorectal cancer care.

Understanding Minimally Invasive Colorectal Cancer Surgery

Minimally invasive colorectal cancer surgery refers to a procedure that is performed to remove the cancerous cells from the colon and rectum through small incisions using a laparoscope equipped with a camera and other surgical instruments. The surgeon provides a view of the abdomen on a high-definition monitor, thereby allowing precise removal of diseased tissue.

One of the important aspects of colorectal cancer surgery is the removal of the nearby lymph nodes, which are examined under a microscope to determine if the cancer cells have spread beyond the primary tumour.

Who is the Ideal Candidate for Laparoscopic Colorectal Cancer Surgery?

Not all patients require the same colorectal cancer surgery approach. Several factors determine whether an individual should consider the procedure. Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik, a renowned surgeon specialising in colorectal cancer surgery, checks the following:

• The size and stage of the tumour
• Location of the tumour
• Previous abdominal surgeries
• Overall health of the patient
• Anatomical abnormalities

Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik conducts a thorough assessment to prepare the safest and most effective treatment modality.

Advantages of Minimally Invasive Colorectal Cancer Surgery

Laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery has transformed the way these types of cancers are treated. This approach offers various advantages over traditional surgical interventions with the same goal of cancer removal.

• Smaller incisions result in small cuts and less tissue damage
• Reduced post-operative bleeding and pain
• Shorter hospital stay, with most patients getting discharged within a few days.
• Faster recovery period with individuals returning to normal activities soon.
• Lower risk of complications like wound infections and excessive bleeding
• Negligible chance of recurrence
• Improved surgical precision allows for accurate tumour removal.
• Effective cancer treatment increases the survival rate
• Better quality of life leading to smooth and quick healing

What Can Patients Expect?

Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik believes that patient education is extremely crucial before colorectal cancer surgery to reduce anxiety, improve treatment compliance and help prevent complications. Here is what individuals can expect.

Before the Procedure

Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik reviews the patient's medical history, imaging scans, colonoscopy findings, biopsy reports, and blood tests to determine the stage and location of the cancer. After that, patients are given guidelines that they must adhere to for a successful outcome.
For example, patients are asked to do the following:

• Follow dietary precautions like switching to a low-fibre or clear liquid diet one or two days before surgery to help empty the bowel.
• Patients are usually instructed not to eat or drink for several hours before the procedure to reduce the risk of aspiration during general anaesthesia.
• Some individuals are prescribed laxatives to empty the colon.
  Blood thinners, diabetes medications, or certain supplements may need to be temporarily stopped or adjusted.
  Smoking cessation and avoiding alcohol are also advised for better wound healing.

During the Procedure

On the day of the colorectal cancer surgery, patients are given anaesthesia so that they can remain asleep throughout the procedure. Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik then makes four to five smaller incisions in the abdomen.
The laparoscope is then inserted through one of the incisions to get a view of the internal organs. Once the cancerous cells are removed, the healthy ends of the intestine are joined together in a process called anastomosis.

After the Procedure

After the procedure, Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik gives post-operative instructions to patients to promote quick and safe healing.

• Individuals are encouraged to go for gentle walking to improve circulation and prevent blood clots.
• Stick to liquid and soft foods before returning to a normal diet.
• Keep the incisions clean and dry and watch for signs of infection such as redness, swelling or pus discharge.
• Take pain medications and antibiotics or other medicines exactly as directed.
• Avoid heavy lifting, vigorous exercise, and physically demanding tasks for some time for proper wound healing.
• Attend the follow-up appointments to determine if any additional treatments are required.

Why Choose Surgeons with Advanced Colorectal Fellowships (like FALS)?

The success of a colorectal cancer surgery depends on the expertise of the surgeon. Make sure to choose a surgeon who has completed advanced fellowship programmes such as the Fellowship in Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery (FALS).

Surgeons with FALS are trained to perform complex colorectal cancer cases with minimally invasive techniques. During the fellowship, surgeons gain extensive experience in advanced laparoscopic skills and accurate tissue dissection to treat challenging colorectal cases. This allows the surgeons to remove tumours while minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissues.

Dr.Purnendu Bhowmik is one of the leading gastrointestinal & advanced laparoscopic & laser surgeons in Kolkata. After completing his Master's (MS) in General Surgery from Calcutta National Medical College & Hospital (CNMC&H), he had the opportunity to undergo a fellowship in minimal access surgery (FMAS, AMASI).

Then he underwent a Fellowship in Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery (FALS) in New Delhi. This has equipped him with a patient-centric approach for colorectal cancer care. Patients feel confident under his guidance that they are receiving the right care, such as the successful removal of cancerous cells and enhanced recovery.

Conclusion

Modern minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery have represented a major leap in patient care for those suffering from this deadly disease. Individuals can receive an effective cancer treatment with minimal disruption to their daily lives.
Furthermore, the involvement of fellowship-trained surgeons, particularly those with advanced training like FALS, such as Dr Purnendu Bhowmik, ensures that treatment options are individualised for increased survival chances.