Colo-rectal Cancer Treatment in Boca Raton
Colo-rectal cancer is diagnosed when abnormal cells divide uncontrollably and form a malignant mass (tumor) in either the colon or the rectum. Most colo-rectal cancers form from the glandular cells that line both the colon and the rectum. This type of cancer is known as adenocarcinoma, and can spread to other parts of the body.
Part of the large intestine, the colon and the rectum are an integral part of the body's digestive system. As the human body digests nutrients from food, it stores waste in the colon until it is removed through the rectum. Here is where tumors, either malignant or benign, usually develop. Benign colo-rectal tumors are known as polyps and can increase a person's chances of developing colo-rectal cancer.
Other factors that may increase the risk in both men and women:
- Over the age of 50
- Family history of the disease
- High-fat/low-fiber diet
- Physical inactivity and obesity
If you fall into any of the above categories, see your doctor for information on ways to prevent colo-rectal cancer, such as proper diet and exercise, drug therapy and a variety of screening tests depending upon your age.
Better Treatment
Andrew Ross, MD, colo-rectal surgeon, performed the region’s first single-incision laparoscopic colectomy at Boca Raton Regional Hospital. The patient, diagnosed with colon cancer, had the right side of her colon removed through a 3/4-inch incision.
In the past, laparoscopic colectomy involved removal of part of the colon through four incisions in the patient’s abdomen, eliminating the need for patients to undergo the more traditional open surgery. Until recently, the single-incision technique had only been performed on patients needing gallbladder surgery.
Now, the single-incision laparoscopic colectomy for treatment of colon cancer means doctors can insert specialized tools through a tiny incision in the patient’s belly button, or umbilicus, including a camera and an instrument for cutting and suturing. The cancerous part of the colon is removed through the incision.
Single-incision laparoscopic colectomy is strictly for patients with a very small, early-stage cancer. Patients must also be in good physical condition and have had no prior surgeries for colon cancer treatment. The procedure takes about an hour and a half.
Patients who have a single-incision laparoscopic colectomy can expect to have a faster recovery, less scarring and less time in the hospital. Patients interested in the procedure should talk to their primary care physician.