What to Expect from Colorectal Cancer Surgery

The most appropriate surgical approach depends on several factors, including:

• Location of the cancer: Whether the tumour is in the colon or rectum can influence the type of surgery performed.
• Stage of the disease: The extent to which the cancer has grown or spread may affect the surgical plan and whether additional treatments are needed.
• Overall health of the patient: The patient’s medical condition and ability to recover from surgery are also important considerations.

A colorectal surgeon will evaluate these factors carefully to recommend the most suitable treatment approach for each patient.

What Are the Different Types of Colorectal Cancer Surgery?

The type of surgery recommended for colorectal cancer depends on factors such as the tumour’s location, size and stage. Common surgical procedures for colorectal cancer include:

• Polypectomy

  Small cancerous or precancerous polyps may be removed during a colonoscopy before they develop into more advanced cancer.

• Local excision

  Early-stage tumours located near the surface of the colon or rectum may sometimes be removed through the anus without the need for large incisions.

• Colon or rectal resection

  This involves removing the section of the colon or rectum that contains the tumour along with nearby lymph nodes. The remaining healthy ends of the bowel are typically reconnected to restore normal bowel function.

• Colostomy

  In certain situations, a temporary or permanent opening may be created in the abdomen to allow waste to exit the body if the bowel cannot be immediately reconnected.

How to Prepare for Colorectal Cancer Surgery?

Before colorectal cancer surgery, patients typically undergo a thorough medical evaluation to ensure the procedure is safe and appropriate. This assessment helps the surgical team understand the extent of the cancer and plan the most suitable surgical approach.

Preparation may involve several steps, including reviewing your medical history, performing physical examinations and conducting imaging or diagnostic tests. Your surgeon will also explain the procedure, discuss the potential risks and benefits and outline what you can expect during recovery.

Patients may receive instructions before surgery, such as dietary adjustments or bowel preparation, to help ensure the colon is ready for the procedure. Following these guidelines closely can help support a smoother surgical and recovery process.

What Is Recovery After Colorectal Cancer Surgery Like?

Recovery after colorectal cancer surgery varies depending on the type of procedure performed and the patient’s overall health. In the initial days after surgery, patients are closely monitored while the body begins to heal and normal bowel function gradually returns.

During recovery, some discomfort, fatigue or temporary changes in bowel habits are common. Patients are usually encouraged to resume light activities gradually and follow the post-operative care instructions provided by their medical team. Regular follow-up appointments help ensure proper healing and allow the surgeon to monitor recovery progress.

Approach Colorectal Cancer Surgery with Greater Assurance

Colorectal cancer surgery is often a key step in treating the condition and managing its progression. Understanding what to expect before, during and after the procedure can help patients feel more prepared for the journey ahead.

At Maven Surgery, colorectal cancer care is guided by a careful and patient-centred approach, ensuring that each treatment plan is tailored to the individual’s condition and overall health. Dr Chong Chee Keong, a dual-fellowship trained colorectal surgeon with more than 20 years of experience, combines clinical expertise with a thoughtful, personalised approach to help patients understand their surgical options and recovery journey. If you have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer or would like to explore your treatment options, schedule a consultation with our specialist so that we can help you take an informed step toward effective treatment together.

Meet Our Specialist

Dr Chong Chee Keong Breast, Colorectal and General Surgeon MBBS (Singapore), FRCS (Edinburgh), FRCS (Glasgow), FAMS (Singapore) Specialist Accreditation in Intensive Care Medicine Specialists Accreditation Board, Medical Director & Senior Consultant

Dr Chong Chee Keong is a Breast, Colorectal and General Surgeon with over 20 years of clinical experience. Dual-fellowship trained and highly accredited, he founded Maven Surgery with a commitment to elevating the standard of care for breast and colorectal cancers, the two most common cancers affecting women and men.

Dr Chong works closely with multidisciplinary teams of surgical, medical and radiation oncologists and remains actively involved in international cancer conferences to stay at the forefront of advancing techniques. He has a strong focus on minimally invasive surgery, recognising the importance of preserving self-image while maintaining treatment safety and effectiveness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Colorectal Surgery