Procedure · GI Oncology

Colon cancer surgery, laparoscopic where possible

Right, left and sigmoid colectomy · Apollo Nellore

Most colon cancers, when caught at a treatable stage, can be cured with surgery. Dr. Reddy performs laparoscopic and open colon cancer surgery at Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Nellore, with full multidisciplinary cancer care.

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01 · GI Oncology

When is surgery the treatment?

For most colon cancers, surgery is the primary treatment. The goal is to remove the segment of colon containing the tumor along with the surrounding lymph nodes. Chemotherapy may be added before or after surgery depending on the stage.

02 · GI Oncology

Types of colon resection

Right hemicolectomy: for cancers in the cecum, ascending colon, or proximal transverse colon
Left hemicolectomy: for cancers in the descending colon
Sigmoidectomy: for cancers in the sigmoid colon
Subtotal colectomy: rare, for multiple tumors or specific genetic cancers

Most colon resections today are done laparoscopically. Smaller cuts mean faster recovery, less pain, and earlier return to chemotherapy if needed.

03 · GI Oncology

How the procedure works

01 Preoperative colonoscopy and CT to map the tumor
02 Laparoscopic or open access depending on tumor and patient
03 Segment of colon containing the tumor is removed along with regional lymph nodes
04 The two ends of the colon are reconnected (anastomosis)
05 In rare cases, a temporary or permanent stoma may be needed

04 · GI Oncology

Recovery

Hospital stay	4 to 7 days.
Diet progression	Clear liquids, soft foods, normal diet over 1 to 2 weeks.
Return to light work	2 to 3 weeks.
Full activity	4 to 6 weeks.
Oncology follow up	Depending on stage.

05 · GI Oncology

Why Dr. Reddy for colon cancer surgery

DrNB Surgical Gastroenterology with GI oncology focus
Laparoscopic approach for most cases
Oncologic principles strictly followed (proper margins, full lymph node dissection)
Apollo tumor board review for every case

06 · GI Oncology

Frequently asked questions

Will I need a permanent colostomy?

For most colon cancers, no. Permanent stomas are mainly needed for certain rectal cancers or in emergency situations.

How long after surgery before I can resume normal life?

Most patients return to office work in 2 to 3 weeks and full activity by 6 weeks.

Will I need chemotherapy?

Stage 1 colon cancer usually does not need chemo. Stage 3 almost always does. Stage 2 is decided case by case.

Related conditions

Conditions this procedure treats.

ICD-10 · C18-C20

Colorectal Cancer

Cancer of the colon or rectum. The fourth most common cancer worldwide. Curative-intent surgery, often combined with chemotherapy and radiation, is the standard of care for resectable disease.

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Next step

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