What are precautionary measures after a colorectal surgery?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 48-year-old man who was recently diagnosed with colorectal cancer. I underwent laparoscopic surgery as part of the treatment. Now, I am a bit unsure about what I should do next. I want to make sure I am taking the right steps in my recovery and follow-up care. Could you please guide me on what should be the next steps after this surgery? I am eager to know if there are any further treatments or precautions I should take.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

1) Colorectal cancer's next step depends upon the preoperative tumor stage as well as final biopsy sample results, which must have been submitted after surgery.

2) Types of surgery are important too; I mean, in the initial phase, the tumor is removed, and the colon is stitched together, known as end-to-end anastomosis, or the tumor is removed, and a colostomy bag is attached to your abdominal wall (not passing stools via normal passage).

3) After the final biopsy, the surgeon and oncologist would decide, depending upon your stage of disease, whether you need chemo or radiation therapy or not.

4) If there is no further treatment, then relook at colonoscopy or surgery after three to six months to see the anastomosis site from inside.

5) A CT (computed tomography) scan would be repeated as well.

6) There are no major dietary limitations; just take a soft, hygienic diet, avoid eating out, and eat too many smoked meat products.

I hope I cleared all your doubts.

Thank you.