Colorectal surgery covers the surgical treatment of large bowel and rectal disease. The most important topic is colorectal cancer; when caught early, treatment success is high. Removing polyps found at colonoscopy largely prevents cancer from developing. In suitable cases the laparoscopic method gives oncological outcomes equivalent to open surgery.
- Colon cancer
- Rectal cancer
- Colonic polyps
- Diverticular disease and diverticulitis
- Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease
- Laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery
- Stoma-free rectal surgery
- Stoma surgery
- Bowel obstruction and perforation
Colorectal cancer is among the most common cancers worldwide and in Turkey. Its most important feature is that it is preventable: most of these cancers develop from polyps over the course of years, and those polyps can be found and removed at colonoscopy.
Symptoms and Warning Signs
- A change in bowel habit (persistent constipation or diarrhoea)
- Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
- Narrowing of stool calibre
- A feeling of incomplete emptying
- Abdominal pain, bloating, trapped wind
- Unintended weight loss and fatigue
- Unexplained anaemia (iron deficiency)
Screening: In people at average risk, colorectal cancer screening generally begins at 45-50. Those with a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps start earlier. Faecal occult blood testing and colonoscopy are the main screening methods.
Colonoscopy and Polyps
Colonoscopy allows the large bowel to be viewed from within. Polyps found during the procedure can be removed in the same session (polypectomy) and sent for pathological examination. Removing polyps is the most effective way of preventing colorectal cancer.
Colorectal Cancer Surgery
The extent of surgery depends on the location of the tumour: right, left or sigmoid colon, or rectal resection. The affected bowel segment is removed together with its feeding vessels and the relevant lymph nodes, and the bowel ends are then joined.
Laparoscopic colorectal surgery
In suitable cases the operation is performed by the keyhole method. Oncological outcomes are equivalent to open surgery, while post-operative pain is less and the return of bowel function and discharge are faster.
Is a stoma needed?
Not in every colorectal cancer operation. For tumours in the lower rectum a temporary stoma may be created to protect the join, and it is usually closed a few months later. A permanent stoma is required only in selected cases where the anal canal cannot be preserved.
Other Colorectal Conditions
- Diverticular disease: Small pouches in the wall of the large bowel. When inflamed (diverticulitis) they cause abdominal pain and fever; surgery may be needed in recurrent or complicated cases.
- Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease: Inflammatory bowel diseases, treated primarily with medication; surgery is considered where medication fails or complications develop.
- Bowel obstruction and perforation: Conditions requiring emergency surgery.
An Oncological Foundation and Colorectal Experience
Op. Dr. Ersan Semerci completed his residency at Ankara Oncology Hospital. Oncological surgery is listed as a separate specialty area on his Medical Park doctor profile.
- Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery Course, Mersin University Department of General Surgery (2013)
- Nutrition in Colorectal Disease Course, Mersin (2018)
- Colorectal Cancer Screening and Post-Screening Diagnosis Training, Turkish Ministry of Health, Antalya (2019)
- Publication: Ucar E, Semerci E, Ustun H et al. "Prognostic value of preoperative CEA, CA 19-9, CA 72-4, and AFP levels in gastric cancer." Advances in Therapy, 2008;25(10):1075-84
Consultations and operations are carried out at Medicalpark Mersin Hospital. Op. Dr. Ersan Semerci has practised in Mersin since 2010. Patients travelling from Mersin and neighbouring provinces can book via WhatsApp.
Book on WhatsAppWhen should I have a colonoscopy?
In people at average risk, screening generally begins at 45-50. Those with a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps start earlier. Bleeding, a change in bowel habit or anaemia require assessment at any age.
Is a polyp cancer?
Polyps are mostly benign, but some can turn into cancer over the years. This is why polyps found at colonoscopy are removed and examined pathologically.
Will I need a stoma bag after colon cancer surgery?
Not in every operation. For tumours in the lower rectum a temporary stoma may be created to protect the join and is usually closed a few months later. A permanent stoma is needed only in selected cases.
Consultation and Appointments in Mersin
For symptoms within Colorectal Surgery you can book an appointment at Medicalpark Mersin Hospital. Mezitli / Mersin, Turkey, weekdays 09:00-17:00.
WhatsApp: +90 542 236 05 33Disclaimer. This page is provided for general information only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis or a treatment recommendation, and it is not a substitute for examination, diagnosis and treatment by a physician. The content is not tailored to any individual and is not intended as advertising. Which method is suitable for you can only be determined after examination and the necessary investigations. Consult your own doctor about any decision concerning your health.