Overview

What is Colorectal Cancer?

The colon and rectum make up the large intestine (or large bowel), which is part of the digestive system. Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or rectum when cells grow abnormally and form a lump (tumour).

Who is at Risk?

Colorectal cancer may develop in individuals with:

• Age above 45–50 years
• Family history of cancer
• Bowel polyps (small pieces of bulging tissue)
• Smoking and high alcohol intake
• Obesity and low physical activity
• Low-fibre diet or processed foods

Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer

• Blood in stool (red, dark brown or black stool)
• Constipation or diarrhoea
• Stomach pain or bloating
• Sudden weight loss
• Weakness or tiredness

How is it Diagnosed?

• Colonoscopy (camera test to look inside the colon)
• Proctoscopy (camera test to look inside the rectum)
• Biopsy (tissue test)
• Blood tests
• Computed tomography (CT scan)
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

How is this Condition Managed?

Surgery is a key treatment. Other treatments depend on the stage of bowel cancer:

• Surgery — local resection, polypectomy, partial colectomy, colostomy or robotic colorectal surgery, depending on the stage of cancer
• Chemotherapy (drugs to kill or stop the growth of cancer cells)
• Radiation therapy (high-energy radiation to halt cancer cell growth)
• Targeted therapy or immunotherapy for selected cancers (chosen based on tumour tests; immunotherapy helps the body's immune system fight cancer)

Overview of Colorectal Cancer Surgery

What is it?

Surgery removes the cancer-affected part of the bowel along with nearby lymph nodes. The healthy ends are usually joined back together.

Why is Surgery Done?

• To remove the tumour
• To prevent spread
• To relieve bowel blockage caused by the cancer growth
• To improve long-term outcomes

Types of Surgery

Benefits of Robot-Assisted Colorectal Surgery

• Smaller cuts and scars
• Less pain
• Less blood loss
• Faster healing
• Allows better precision in difficult areas

Procedure Details

Instructions Before the Procedure

• BP, pulse and temperature will be checked
• Doctor will review your medicines
• Inform about allergies
• You will be asked to fast before surgery
• Bowel preparation may be advised

Step-by-Step Overview

• You will be given anaesthesia (put to sleep)
• Small cuts are made in your belly
• The surgeon uses robotic arms to remove the cancer
• Bowel is joined back together or a stool bag is created (if needed)
• The cuts are then closed

After the Procedure

• Your pain, vital signs and bowel function will be monitored
• Early walking is encouraged
• Temporary tubes/drains may be used

Risks & Complications

Common Problems Post-Surgery

• Leak where the bowel ends are joined
• Leakage of stool from the bag
• Slow working of the bowel

Other Common Risks

• Pain
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Blood clots

Benefits and Outcomes

Expected Results

• Removal of cancer-affected bowel part
• Better control of disease
• Relief from bleeding, blockage or pain
• Faster return to routine in suitable patients

Hospital Stay & Recovery

• Most patients stay in the hospital for a few days (3–5 days)
• Recovery is usually faster with robotic surgery
• You may be able to go home earlier than with open surgery
• Walking and light activity often start within 1–2 days
• Discharge depends on bowel movement, pain control and overall recovery

Lifestyle & Prevention

Activity Restrictions

• Avoid heavy lifting
• Avoid driving until cleared
• Avoid strenuous exercise initially

Wound Care / Precautions

• Keep wounds clean and dry
• Do not scratch or rub the wound
• Watch for redness, swelling, pain, pus, or fever

Diet

• Eat small, frequent meals initially
• Include protein-rich foods for healing
• Drink enough fluids
• Add fibre gradually, as advised
• Follow special diet instructions if you have a stool bag

Exercise

• Start with walking
• Increase activity slowly
• Avoid gym or heavy exercise until doctor permits

Long-Term Care

• Attend regular follow-ups
• Complete chemotherapy or radiation if advised
• Report new bowel changes early
• Follow screening advice for family members if needed

Preventing Recurrence

• Stop smoking
• Maintain healthy weight
• Stay physically active
• Eat more fruits, vegetables, and fibre
• Limit processed meat and alcohol
• Do not miss follow-up tests

Myths vs Facts

Frequently Asked Questions