Introduction:
Tumors of the lower gastrointestinal tract (small intestine, colon, and rectum/anus) are among the most common types of tumors, and their causes, symptoms, and treatment options vary.
Surgical resection is the primary and most effective step in treating these tumors, whether benign or malignant, especially when detected in the early stages.
At Dr. [kerollous medhat] clinic, a comprehensive assessment is provided, along with an individualized treatment plan for each patient, based on the tumor's location, type, and extent.
First: What are lower gastrointestinal tumors?
Small bowel tumors:
Relatively rare
Include benign (polyps) or malignant tumors such as:
Adenocarcinoma
Neuroendocrine tumors
Lymphomas
GIST tumors
Colon tumors:
Very common, especially after the age of 50
Often begin as polyps that can develop into cancer if not removed early
Rectal and anal tumors:
Tend to spread locally or to nearby lymph nodes
Require careful evaluation before deciding on surgery
Second: Risk factors
Family history of colon cancer or polyps
Chronic colon diseases (such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease)
Unhealthy lifestyle (excess fat, low fiber, smoking, alcohol)
Lack of physical activity
Obesity
Genetic syndromes such as FAP and Lynch syndrome
Third: Common symptoms
Small bowel tumors:
Recurrent pain Abdominal
Nausea and vomiting
Intestinal obstruction
Internal bleeding (may appear as anemia)
Colorectal tumors:
Change in bowel patterns (chronic constipation/diarrhea)
Blood in stool
Weight loss
Pain or a feeling of incomplete emptying of the rectum
General weakness or anemia
Fourth: Diagnosis
Blood tests and tumor markers
Fecal occult blood test
Colonoscopy:
The primary diagnostic tool
Allows the tumor to be visualized and a biopsy to be performed
CT scan/MRI
To determine the extent of the tumor
PET-CT scan (in certain cases)
To identify secondary tumors
Fifth: Surgical resection – when and why?
Surgery is recommended in the following cases:
Presence of a malignant or potentially malignant tumor
Symptoms of obstruction or bleeding
Failure to respond to conservative treatment
Presence of multiple polyps or in the context of a hereditary disease
Sixth: Types of Surgery
Small bowel tumors:
Radical resection of the affected portion of the bowel with the tumor and reconnection of the healthy ends
Colon tumors:
Right or left colectomy
Depending on the location of the tumor
Total colectomy
In cases of hereditary or extensive tumors
Rectal and anal tumors:
Low anterior resection
To preserve the anal sphincter, if possible
Radical abdominoperineal resection
With the complete removal of the rectum and anus and creation of a permanent or temporary colostomy
Transanal surgery
For small, superficial tumors
Seventh: Postoperative care
Hospital stay of 3 to 7 days, depending on the type of surgery
Periodical follow-up
Follow-up imaging every 3-6 months
Special nutritional support during recovery
Complementary chemotherapy/radiation (Depending on the type and stage of the tumor)
Eighth: Possible Complications
Leakage at the anastomosis site between the intestines or colon
Post-operative infections
Bleeding
Intestinal obstruction
Anesthesia-related complications
Temporary disturbances in bowel movements or the absorption of nutrients
These risks are rare with precise and early surgery, and are significantly reduced with medical experience and good follow-up.
Chances of Recovery
The recovery rate depends on the type, location, and stage of the tumor.
Early detection = higher chances of recovery, up to 90% in some cases.
In advanced cases, long-term control and improved quality of life can be achieved through surgery and combined treatment.
At Dr. [Kerollous Medhat] clinic:
Comprehensive evaluation with radiology and lab tests
Meticulous surgical planning using the latest laparoscopic and open surgery techniques
An integrated team comprising oncological surgeons, gastroenterologists, and nutritionists
Close post-operative follow-up to ensure the best results
Why choose Dr. Kyrillos Medhat?
* Accurate diagnosis and selection of the best treatment plans to ensure the best global results.
* Continuous and meticulous patient follow-up until recovery, God willing.
* The doctor is an active member of the European Society of Surgical Oncology and the Egyptian Society of Surgical Oncology, thus keeping up with the latest international recommendations in oncological surgery.
* The surgical decision is made after consultation with oncologists, interventional radiologists, and therapeutic nutritionists to develop a comprehensive treatment protocol, along with a report for the patient to be added to their file.
Book your consultation now
If you are suffering from chronic gastrointestinal symptoms or have polyps or tumors confirmed by reports, do not hesitate to contact us.