Colon Cancer

Colon cancer (also called colorectal cancer when it includes the rectum) is a malignant condition in which abnormal cells grow in the lining of the large bowel. It often develops slowly from pre-cancerous polyps, which is why screening colonoscopy and polyp removal can prevent cancer.

Symptoms may include a change in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, iron-deficiency anaemia, fatigue, or bowel obstruction. Some people have no symptoms and are diagnosed during screening.

Assessment aims to confirm the diagnosis, determine the stage, and plan treatment.

Clinical assessment and examination
Blood tests (including anaemia and liver function)
Colonoscopy with biopsy to confirm the diagnosis
Imaging for staging:
- CT scan of chest/abdomen/pelvis
- MRI (particularly for rectal cancers)
- Additional scans if required
In selected cases, tumour markers may be used to assist with monitoring

Treatment is planned within a multidisciplinary team.

What to expect

Before Your Surgery

Authorization will be arranged by the rooms or hospital staff.
Pre-operative work-up may include blood tests, ECG, imaging, and anaesthetic assessment.
Bowel preparation may be required depending on the planned surgery.
Fasting:
No solid food for 6 hours before surgery
No clear liquids for 2 hours before surgery
Inform your doctor if you are taking blood-thinning medication.
Diabetic medication instructions will be discussed in advance.

Day of Surgery

Colon cancer surgery is performed under general anaesthesia. You may have:

IV lines for fluids and medication
A urinary catheter
Sometimes drains, depending on the operation
Pain control via tablets, injection, or epidural/nerve blocks in selected cases

Early mobilisation and breathing exercises are encouraged after surgery.

Procedure

Management depends on the tumour location, stage, and overall health.

Surgery is the main treatment for most colon cancers:
- Removal of the affected bowel segment with lymph nodes (colectomy)
- Reconnection of the bowel (anastomosis) when safe
- In some cases, a stoma may be required (temporary or permanent)
Surgery may be performed laparoscopically (keyhole) or as an open operation
Chemotherapy may be recommended before or after surgery depending on stage and pathology
Endoscopic stenting may be used in selected cases of obstruction (as a bridge to surgery or palliation)

All removed tissue is sent for histological analysis.

Procedure Length

Surgery typically takes 2–4 hours, depending on the site and complexity.

Possible Complications

Bleeding
Infection
Anastomotic leak (leak from the bowel join)
Bowel obstruction or ileus after surgery
Injury to nearby organs (bowel, bladder, ureter, blood vessels)
Unintended damage to surrounding structures
Need for stoma formation
Blood clots (DVT/PE) or chest infection
Need for further procedures or surgery
Seek urgent medical attention if you develop severe abdominal pain, fever, persistent vomiting, increasing abdominal swelling, or heavy bleeding.

Duration of Hospital Stay

Most patients stay in hospital for 5–10 days, depending on recovery, return of bowel function, and whether a stoma is present.

Discharge Instructions

Take prescribed pain medication and other treatment as directed.
Keep wounds clean and dry and follow dressing instructions.
Walk daily and gradually increase activity.
Follow dietary advice and stay hydrated.
Monitor for fever, increasing pain, vomiting, wound redness/discharge, or problems with bowel function.
If you have a stoma, you will receive dedicated stoma care education.

Return to Activities

Gentle activity and walking are encouraged soon after discharge.
Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for 4–6 weeks.
Driving is usually safe once you are comfortable, can react quickly, and are not taking strong pain medication (often 2–3 weeks).

Colon Cancer

What to expect

Before Your Surgery

Day of Surgery

Procedure

Procedure Length

Possible Complications

Duration of Hospital Stay

Discharge Instructions

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