Performed by Dr. Ravi Chandra Reddy Obili at Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy
Colorectal cancer surgery is an operation to remove cancerous tissue from the colon or rectum. The extent of surgery depends on the location and stage of the tumour. The goal is to remove the cancer completely while preserving as much normal bowel function as possible.
We believe in honest, upfront disclosure so you can make an informed decision.
A step-by-step look at what happens during this procedure.
General anaesthesia is given and the patient is positioned on the operating table. Antibiotics are administered to reduce infection risk.
The surgeon makes an incision in the abdomen or uses minimally invasive techniques with small ports to reach the colon or rectum.
The segment of colon or rectum containing the cancer is removed along with surrounding tissue and nearby lymph nodes to check for cancer spread.
The healthy ends of the bowel are joined together. In some cases, a temporary or permanent stoma (opening on the abdomen) may be created for waste elimination.
The incisions are closed and the patient is taken to recovery. Monitoring continues in the hospital for several days.
A structured, patient-first approach from first consultation to full recovery.
Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy reviews imaging and biopsy reports to map the surgery, discussing the approach and potential need for a stoma with the patient.
The procedure is tailored to tumour location and stage, using open or laparoscopic techniques as clinically appropriate to remove the cancer.
The tumour and lymph nodes are removed with attention to margins, and the bowel is reconnected when safe to do so.
Recovery is monitored closely with pain control, nutrition support, and planning for any further treatment that may be needed based on pathology results.
What to expect at each stage of your recovery journey.
The first few days involve monitoring vital signs, managing pain, and gradually reintroducing fluids and food as the bowel begins to work again. Walking is encouraged to prevent complications.
After discharge, rest and gradual activity increases are important. Diet is advanced slowly, and any wound care or stoma management instructions must be followed. Follow-up appointments track healing.
Over the next several weeks, energy levels improve and normal activities resume. Further cancer treatment may be planned based on pathology. Individual recovery timelines vary widely.
The procedure aims to remove the cancerous tissue completely. Success depends on tumour stage, location, and whether cancer has spread beyond the bowel.
Most patients regain bowel control, though some experience increased frequency or urgency. Rectal surgery in particular may affect control and continence.
Surgery may not eliminate all cancer cells. Chemotherapy or radiation may be needed before or after surgery depending on pathology findings.
A stoma may be temporary to allow healing or permanent depending on how much rectum is removed. Adaptation and management take time and support.
The right choice depends on your diagnosis, risks and circumstances — discussed with you at your consultation.
For some rectal cancers, these treatments may be given before surgery to shrink the tumour or used alone in cases where surgery is not possible.
Very early stage or small cancers may sometimes be removed through a colonoscope without major surgery, depending on depth and characteristics.
When cancer is advanced and surgery would not improve outcomes, symptom management and quality of life become the focus of care.
Let's clear up some of the most common myths about colorectal cancer surgery.
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