About Anorectal Cancer Surgery
Key Highlights
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Performed by specialized surgical oncologists with expertise in gastrointestinal cancers.Aims for complete tumor removal with clear margins to reduce recurrence risk.Can often be performed using minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopy or robotics for faster recovery.Focuses on preserving sphincter function and continence whenever possible.Integrates with a multidisciplinary team approach for comprehensive cancer care.
Who is this surgery for?
- Diagnosis of adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or other malignant tumors of the anus or rectum.
- Localized cancer (Stages I-III) that has not widely metastasized.
- Persistent or recurrent cancer after non-surgical treatments like chemoradiation.
- Presence of symptoms like rectal bleeding, obstruction, or pain due to the tumor.
- High-grade dysplasia or carcinoma in situ that is at high risk of progression.
How to prepare
- Complete pre-operative evaluation including colonoscopy, imaging (MRI/CT), and biopsy confirmation.
- Bowel preparation (clear liquid diet and laxatives) to empty the colon.
- Discontinuation of blood-thinning medications (e.g., aspirin, warfarin) as advised by the doctor.
- Pre-operative counseling with a stoma nurse if a temporary or permanent colostomy is anticipated.
- Fasting for 8-12 hours before the surgery and administration of prophylactic antibiotics.
Risks & possible complications
- General surgical risks: bleeding, infection, or adverse reaction to anesthesia.
- Injury to nearby structures like nerves, bladder, or reproductive organs.
- Bowel-related complications: anastomotic leak, bowel obstruction, or fistula formation.
- Changes in bowel function, including incontinence, urgency, or frequent bowel movements.
- For some procedures, potential need for a temporary or permanent colostomy.
- Risk of cancer recurrence or need for additional treatments.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Initial hospital stay for monitoring pain, bowel function, and wound healing.
- Gradual advancement from clear liquids to a soft, low-residue diet as tolerated.
- Pain management with prescribed medications and guidance on caring for the surgical site.
- Gradual increase in physical activity, avoiding heavy lifting for 4-6 weeks.
- Follow-up appointments to monitor recovery, discuss pathology results, and plan any adjuvant therapy.
- Possible referral to physical therapy or support groups for managing lifestyle changes.
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Typical hospital stay: 5-10 days
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Expected recovery time: 4-8 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering anorectal cancer surgery in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in India with surgical oncology departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform anorectal cancer surgery. MediFyr helps you compare surgical oncologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for anorectal cancer surgery compare across other countries where we have data.
Angel Malhotra, a 58-year-old restaurant owner...
Angel Malhotra, a 58-year-old restaurant owner and father of three, had always been active and health-conscious. For months, he dismissed persistent rectal bleeding as hemorrhoids, a common issue in his family. When he began experiencing a constant feeling of needing to have a bowel movement and unexplained fatigue, his wife insisted he see a doctor. A colonoscopy revealed a tumor in his lower rectum. The surgical oncologist, Dr. Evans, explained that due to the tumor's location and size, an abdominoperineal resection (APR) was necessary, which would involve removing the rectum and anus and creating a permanent colostomy. Angel was devastated; the idea of a stoma felt like a loss of his independence and masculinity. The surgery was complex but successful. His recovery in the hospital was challenging, filled with pain management and learning stoma care with a dedicated nurse. At home, with support from his family and an ostomy support group, he gradually adapted. Six months later, cancer-free and back to managing his restaurant part-time, Angel's perspective shifted. He saw the colostomy not as a disability, but as the tool that saved his life, allowing him to be present for his family. The fear was replaced by profound gratitude and a renewed focus on living fully.
Surgical Oncologists for Anorectal Cancer Surgery
Explore experienced surgical oncologists who regularly perform anorectal cancer surgery and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 9 Years Experience
- Surgical Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneshwar
- 11 Years Experience
- Surgical Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 39 Years Experience
- Surgical Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 20 Years Experience
- Surgical Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore