Colorectal Cancer
At the Lahey, our expert team of specialists provide a full range of high-quality, comprehensive colorectal cancer services. Our patient-focused care assures you are treated with respect and compassion every step of the way.
From the moment you walk in, we want you to feel confident that you are in expert hands and in the right place.
Our comprehensive care carries through any and all phases of treatment, assuring you of the seamless, integrated care you need and deserve. We offer an unparalleled breadth and depth of colorectal cancer services.
The Colon and Rectal Surgery team performs all of the following abdominal surgeries to relieve symptoms and heal numerous colon and rectal diseases and conditions.
Abdominoperineal Resection
During an abdominoperineal resection (APR), the rectum is removed. After this surgery, patients will have a permanent colostomy. This surgery is performed for cancer of the rectum in addition to inflammatory bowel disease that does not respond to other medical treatments.
Abdominal Surgery for Rectal Prolapse
There are a number of abdominal procedures for rectal prolapse. These procedures generally involve removal of a portion of the large bowel and the use of sutures or prosthetic mesh to “pex” the rectum. An open or laparoscopic approach, depending on various factors, may be performed.
Colon Resection
During a colon resection, the diseased portion of the colon is removed, and the healthy ends are sewn back together. This surgery is performed for diverticular disease, cancer, trauma, or inflammatory bowel disease.
Creation of Ileostomy or Colostomy
This surgical procedure creates an opening in the abdominal wall to remove solid waste. The opening is called a stoma or ostomy. An ileostomy is created from the small intestine when both the colon and rectum are removed. A colostomy is created from the colon and is performed when only the rectum is removed. After the surgery, patients wear a small bag attached to their body to collect the waste. The bag is odorless, not visible when wearing clothes, and typically does not limit patients’ ability to lead an active life.
Ileoanal and Ostomy support group information
Ileoanal Pouch Procedure
This procedure is often performed in stages and involves removal of the colon and rectum with preservation of the sphincter muscles, creation of a new rectum (J-pouch) and temporary ileostomy.
Low Anterior Resection
During this procedure, surgeons remove the rectum and connect the colon to the anus. Sometimes there is the need for a temporary ileostomy. The procedure is typically performed on patients who have rectal cancer.
Small Bowel Resection
The diseased portion of the small bowel is removed and the two healthy ends are sewn back together. This surgery may be performed to remove tumors, narrowed areas of the small bowel, or areas affected by inflammatory bowel disease, especially Crohn’s disease.
Total Abdominal Colectomy
During a total colectomy, the entire colon is removed and sometimes, the rectum. After this surgery, patients will have an ileostomy, which is an opening in the abdomen through which bodily waste enters a pouch. This surgery is most commonly performed for ulcerative colitis, familial polyposis or Crohn’s disease.