Colon Resection
Colon resection – also referred to as “colon surgery” – is a fairly common procedure used to treat a wide variety of illnesses and cancers affecting the colon, the main part of the large intestine. Approximately 600,000 colon surgeries are performed in the U.S. every year. Many of these surgeries are done to treat colon cancer, the third most common cancer in the U.S. (in both men and women).
Who Needs Colon Surgery?
Only a physician can determine if colon surgery is necessary. However, patients with the following conditions may be candidates for colon resection:
- Colonic inertia
- Colorectal cancer
- Crohn’s disease
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Polyps on the colon
- Twisted bowel
- Ulcerative colitis
Robotic Colon Surgery
In the past, many bowel resections were performed using an “open” approach. This process typically involved a long incision on the abdomen, which would require a lengthy hospital stay of a week or so. Recovery from open colon surgery could take up to six weeks.
Today, many surgeons, including the general surgeons at Shorepoint Medical Group, perform robot-assisted colon surgery. This minimally invasive approach requires just a few small incisions instead of one large incision. Additionally, robotic colon surgery technology allows the doctor to perform maneuvers that would be impossible with the human hand alone. Physicians can work in tighter spaces with smaller incisions and less trauma to the body. Learn more about how robotic surgery is being used at Shorepoint Medical Group.
Take Preventive Care: Get Screened for Colon Cancer
Because colon cancer is so prevalent, many organizations, including The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, recommend regular colorectal cancer screenings. General recommendations are as follows:
- Regular screening from age 50 to 75 (all adults)
- Adults age 76-85: discuss screening with your physician
- Adults under age 50: consider screening if you have a close relative who has had colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer; have an inflammatory bowel disease; or have a genetic syndrome associated with colon cancer.
Talk to your doctor about colon cancer and screening. Many health insurance policies cover colorectal cancer screening tests without charging a deductible or co-pay. Additionally, colon cancer – when detected early – can oftentimes be treated successfully.
Schedule a Colon Surgery Consultation Near You
General surgeons at Shorepoint Medical Group are typically able to offer same-day consults. View our locations to find the most convenient office.