How successful is colon cancer surgery, and what are the risks?

Doctor's Answers 1

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Dr Stephen Chang

General Surgeon

The success of colon cancer surgery depends a lot on the stage of the disease. The earlier the stage, the higher the chance of cure of the cancer.

However, with current options of chemotherapy regime, it is still possible to achieve a high chance of cure with later stages of colon cancer.

For instance, when the cancer has spread to the liver (stage 4), and liver alone, by removing all the tumor nodules in the liver, together with chemotherapy treatment, it is possible to achieve 40% to 50% chance of long term survival.

The risks of colon surgery can include the following:

Common Complications:

  1. Wound infection
  2. Anastomotic Leak
  3. Postoperative bleeding
  4. Prolonged ileus
  5. Altered bowel habits including faecal incontinence
  6. Sepsis - UTI / Chest infection
  7. Wound parasthesia
  8. Bowel Obstruction
  9. Anastomotic stenosis

Rare Complications

  1. Intra-operative incidental organ injury
  2. Entero-cutaneous fistula
  3. Deep Vein Thrombosis
  4. Incisional hernia

(adopted from the College of Surgeons Risk Assessment Proforma)

Read on to find out what are colorectal surgeons in our guide.

Similar Questions

What is the recovery process like after a colon cancer surgery in terms of duration or other possible complications that may arise?

The recovery time on any surgery is actually quite varied and it depends heavily on the extent of the surgery required to resect the tumour adequately. As you can imagine, some tumours are very small (less than 1cm) and some, enormous (more than 20cm, involving multiple organs). Some surgeries can be performed as keyhole laparoscopic surgeries, whilst some require open laparotomies. As such, minor colon cancer surgeries are expected to have a shorter post-surgery recovery period. Larger surgeries, may require long hospital stays and closer monitoring, sometimes involving intensive care.

Photo of Dr Jipson Quah

Answered By

Dr Jipson Quah

General Practitioner

How much does colon cancer surgery cost in Singapore, and is it Medisave claimable in private?

Colon cancer surgery is complex and requires a team of specialists, nurses and specialised equipment. The average number of days in hospital is 7-10 days after the operation. As the cost depends on the complexity of the case and the technique used, it is difficult to quote a number but it would roughly range from $40,000 to $70,000 all inclusive. Colorectal cancer surgery is Medisave and insurance claimable. It would be best to contact your insurance provider as they are the best persons to answer your policy questions.

Photo of Dr Nan Yaw Wong

Answered By

Dr Nan Yaw Wong

Colorectal Surgeon

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