Colon Cancer Surgery - Laparoscopic Colectomy

A colectomy is the medical term used to describe the procedure of removing either a part of, or the entire colon. Most commonly used to treat colon cancer, doctors also use colectomy to prevent and treat other diseases of the colon. As with most diseases, early identification and treatment of colon cancer means only minor surgery is likely to be required. In this case, doctors may need to remove only a small section of the colon. However, cancers that have already progressed to latter stages may require doctors to remove a larger section of the colon.

Traditionally, the treatment for colon cancer has required an invasive abdominal incision of 8 to 12 inches long. This meant the patient would spend up to 2 weeks in hospital due to severe postoperative pain. This is followed by an extended recovery period before they can resume their regular activities. Contrarily, a laparoscopic colectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that results in reduced post-operative pain and a faster recovery time. In general, laparoscopic patients can return to their normal routine, including work, within just 1-2 weeks.

As a minimally invasive procedure, a laparoscopic colectomy is performed under general anesthesia. It generally only requires about 3-5 small incisions in total. Following the incisions, surgeons will then inflate the abdomen with carbon dioxide before inserting a compact 3D telescope. The use of the telescope is an invaluable tool for Samitivej’s surgical team. This is because it allows them to clearly see the inside of the abdomen on a 4K monitor. This state-of-the-art technology not only provides enhanced visualization, but it also allows for greater depth perception. With patient wellbeing as our top priority, our surgical team is now able to maximize the precision of the procedure and improve patient safety.

Prior to surgery, all patients are required to undergo a thorough physical examination. Hospitals conduct tests to check for any underlying medical conditions that may affect the procedure. If additional testing is required such as x-rays or blood tests, Samitivej staff will be on hand to assist. All patients are also required to disclose any current medications that they are taking. Some of the medications may thin the blood, hence doctors may recommend temporarily not taking them prior to surgery.

The day immediately prior to surgery, patients need to undergo a relatively simple procedure known as bowel preparation. The purpose of this is to clean all stool from the colon and to ensure it is ready for surgery. As with the rest of the procedure, a designated doctor or nurse will be on hand to provide guidance and further instructions. Finally, doctors will also ask patients not to eat or drink anything after midnight on the evening prior to surgery.

As a laparoscopic colectomy is performed under general anesthesia, patients will be unconscious for the duration of the procedure. After regaining consciousness, patients are likely to experience mild discomfort due to the tubing used to remove stomach secretions and urine from the bladder. These tubes will remain connected to the patient until stomach and bowel functions return to normal. This normally takes a few days. Directly following surgery, patients will be unable to consume any food or drink. However, as each day progresses, the patient’s ability to eat will return, and their diet will be altered accordingly.

Post-operative follow-up and patient care is extremely important to avoid any complications arising. We advise all patients to make an appointment with their surgeon approximately two weeks after their discharge from hospital. This consultation provides an opportunity to identify if patients require any further support. It also provides a chance for patients to receive formal clearance to return to work and to other daily activities such as driving or operating machinery.

Colorectal Surgeons (Colorectal Surgery Specialists)

• Chingyiam Panjapiyakul, M.D.
• Apichart Thanapatcharoen, M.D.
• Wannaporn Teerasopon, M.D.
• Frcst, Facs, Fasmbs. Pornthep Prathanvanich, M.D.
• Pakpong Wathanaoran, M.D.

What are the costs for colon cancer surgery with laparoscopic colectomy and can my insurance cover this? Click here.

The Liver and Digestive Institute uses innovative, state-of-the-art medical equipment necessary to provide speedy, accurate and reliable screening for a complete range of gastrointestinal and liver disorders. Our team of expert medical staff has experience from within Thailand and abroad. The Liver and Digestive Institute, located on the 1st Floor of The Japanese Hospital, Samitivej Sukhumvit Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand.

Samitivej has a team ready to help and provide services for:

• Treatment Plan Consultation with a doctor via online video-call (second opinion)
• Treatment Planning if you have medical records or a price estimate from another hospital
• Cost Planning by our Appraisals Team with price guarantee (only for procedure packages without complications)
• Check Initial Coverage Eligibility with Thai and international insurance companies (only for insurance companies in contract with the Hospital)

Free first video call consultation with doctor. LEARN MORE HERE