What cases of colon cancer can be treated with a transanal endoscopic surgery?

Doctor's Answers 1

Transanal endoscopic surgery is a method of keyhole surgery without creating a scar by using the anus as a natural orifice access.

A camera and 2 small keyhole instruments can be inserted to allow the surgery to be performed. It is used to remove benign growths in the rectum that are deeper than the reach of the surgeon's finger. This is indicated for benign tumours between 7-12cm from the anus.

Sometimes, a transanal keyhole approach is combined with trans-abdominal keyhole approach for lower rectal cancers where the surgeon feels that the trans-abdominal keyhole approach may not be sufficient to clear the cancer. You will need to discuss this with your surgeon as some colorectal surgeons may not have sufficient experience with the transanal keyhole approach.

Similar Questions

How is colon cancer surgery performed, and how does staging affect surgery?

Colon surgery can be done via open surgery or via laparoscopic approach ('keyhole surgery'). The feasibility to perform via laparoscopic approach sometimes depends on the stage of the disease. For instance, a locally advanced disease may not be suitable for a laparoscopic approach. In addition, the stage of the disease may also affect the timing of the surgery. For example, a stage 4 disease with distant sites of spread may benefit from a course of chemotherapy first before considering surgery especially if the colon cancer itself is not causing too much symptom.

Photo of Dr Stephen Chang

Answered By

Dr Stephen Chang

General Surgeon

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

Ask any health question for free

I’m not so sure about a procedure...

Ask Icon Ask a Question

Join Human

Sign up now for a free Human account to get answers from specialists in Singapore.

Sign Up

Get The Pill

Be healthier with our Bite-sized health news straight in your inbox