What is the Colon?
The Colon is part of the intestine involved with digestion, most importantly absorbing water. Like any organ, the colon can develop a disease or a cancer. Some of the most common problems are
* Diverticulitis: Inflamed and/or perforated pouches on the outside of the colon.
* Polyps: Small benign growths on the lining of the colon that may progress to cancerous growths.
* Colon Cancer: malignant tumors in the colon.
What is traditional Colon Surgery?
Patients with disease of the colon may require a portion of the colon to be removed. Patients undergoing traditional “open” colon surgery generally reguire a long incision with patients staying in the hospital for two weeks. The recovery can be very long as this a a highly invasive surgery.
What is a Laparoscopic Colon Surgery?
A technique known as minimally invasive laparoscopic colon surgery allows surgeons to perform many common colon procedures through 4-5 small incisions. These incisions are usually about a quarter of inch long with one of the incisions lengthened to about 3 inches to remove the colon.
What are the advantages of laparoscopic colon resection?
- Less postoperative pain
- Shorter hospital stay
- Faster return to solid-food diet
- Quicker return of bowel function
- Earlier return to normal activity
- Improved cosmetic results
Are you a candidate for laparoscopic colon resection?
Although laparoscopic colon resection has many benefits, it may not be appropriate or possible for some patients. Obtain a thorough medical evaluation by a surgeon qualified in laparoscopic colon resection in consultation with your primary care physician to find out if the technique is appropriate for you. Results may vary depending upon the type of procedure and your overall condition.
What is the advantage of Single Port Access Laparoscopic Colon Surgery?
Many of the benefits for SPA colon surgery are the same as for laparoscopic colon surgery. However, with SPA surgery there is usually on one small 2 inch incision used to perform the entire surgery. This reduction in incisions can reduce the degree of pain and possible improve the time to recovery. A surgeon qualified in SPA surgery can determine if this technique is appropriate for you.
For more information on minimally invasive colon surgery or to schedule an appointment please contact us.