Colon cancer is a type of cancer that affects the large intestine or the lower part of the digestive tract. It starts as small clusters of benign cells, known as adenomatous polyps, that can eventually become cancerous. The polyps don’t produce any symptoms on their own, but regular screening is necessary to prevent them from becoming cancerous. Throughout your colon cancer surgery in Herrin and Mount Vernon, Dr. Ahuja employs advanced laparoscopic and robot-assisted techniques to remove cancerous or precancerous cells from the colon meticulously.
How is Colon Cancer Diagnosed?
You should undergo regular testing for colon cancer even if you don’t notice the signs and symptoms of colon cancer. Your surgeon will employ two main methods, colonoscopy and CT scans, to diagnose colon cancer during your surgery. A colonoscopy involves inserting an endoscope into the colon via the rectum to visualize the walls of the colon and take tissue samples for analysis. A CT scan produces a detailed image of the colon, allowing the doctor to identify abnormalities.
Symptoms of Colon Cancer:
- Irregular bowel movements
- Constant diarrhea
- Constipation
- Irregular stool consistency
- Rectal leading
- Chronic abdominal pain
- Chronic abdominal cramps
- Persistent flatulence
- Unexplained weight loss
It’s worth noting that people with colon cancer don’t always display obvious symptoms. During the early stages, colon cancer may not lead to any symptoms. By the time you notice clear signs and symptoms of colon cancer, the cancerous cells may have spread considerably. That’s why you must undergo regular colonoscopies — your surgeon can perform a colonoscopy to identify and remove the polyps and growths before they become cancerous.
Your Colon Cancer Surgery
Colon cancer can be treated using multiple techniques: colon cancer surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The approach to colon cancer surgery in Herrin and Mount Vernon is contingent upon the nature, size, and stage of colon cancer. In cases of early identification, Dr. Ahuja may use a colonoscopy to remove the cancerous polyp. However advanced colon cancer may necessitate complex laparoscopic surgeries to remove the cancerous parts of the colon. Dr. Ahuja will select the ideal surgical technique after a thorough evaluation.
Other Colon Cancer Treatments
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves inserting specialized drugs in your veins to eliminate cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be performed before colon cancer surgery to shrink the cancerous cells before operating. It can also be performed after colon cancer surgery to prevent a recurrence.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy involves channeling powerful radiations to eliminate cancerous cells. The surgeon may use a gamma knife or HDR brachytherapy to eliminate the cancer cells from inside or outside. Radiation therapy is useful if the cancer cells spread to the lymph nodes.
REAL PATIENT REVIEWS
Why Choose Us For Your Colon Cancer Surgery
in Herrin & Mount Vernon?
Ahuja Bariatric & Beyond is a luxurious medical center specializing in laparoscopic and robot-assisted techniques for colon cancer surgery. Dr. Ahuja performs comprehensive colonoscopy exams to identify and treat colon cancer at the earliest stage possible. Your specific colon cancer treatment plan will depend on the location, size, and spread of the colon cancer cells. Please schedule an appointment if you have questions regarding colon cancer surgery in Herrin and Mount Vernon.
