Partial colectomy

When the cancer has already invaded the walls of the colon, your surgeon may decide on a partial colectomy.

In this surgery, a quarter to a third of the colon is removed (depending on the cancer extension).

The tumor is extracted together with the surrounding area to prevent missing any cancer cells that could have spread from the tumor. The lymph nodes near the affected area are also excised (at least 12 nodules must be taken out).

How much of the colon is removed depends on multiple factors, such as the size, location, and number of tumors.

The healthy ends of the colon on each side are then united, a process called anastomosis.

The operation is performed through an incision on the abdomen, and therefore the patient will need to remain in hospital to recover.