Colon Cancer Surgery: What Patients in Houston, TX Need to Know

By Dr. Ritha Belizaire

Quick Insights

Colon cancer surgery removes the tumor and surrounding tissue to treat the disease. The procedure type depends on cancer stage, tumor location, and overall health. Most patients undergo either open surgery or minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopic or robotic-assisted approaches. Recovery varies based on the surgical method used. Persistent symptoms or new concerns after diagnosis require specialist evaluation to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

Key Takeaways

• Surgery is the primary treatment for stages I through III colon cancer.
• Robotic-assisted surgery may reduce hospital stays and lower conversion to open surgery rates.
• Lymph node removal during surgery helps determine if additional treatment is needed.
• Recovery typically ranges from two to six weeks depending on surgical approach.

Why It Matters

Understanding your surgical options helps reduce fear and supports informed decision-making during a difficult time. Knowing what to expect during recovery allows you to plan for time away from work and family responsibilities. The right surgical approach can affect how quickly you return to daily activities and feel like yourself again.

Introduction

As a board-certified general and colorectal surgeon, I've guided hundreds of patients through colon cancer treatment decisions. Learn more about my credentials and approach as a board-certified colorectal surgeon.

Colon cancer surgery removes the tumor and surrounding tissue to treat the disease. The procedure type depends on cancer stage, tumor location, and your overall health. Most patients undergo either open surgery or minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopic or robotic-assisted approaches.

I understand how frightening a cancer diagnosis feels. Houston patients seeking specialized colorectal surgical care often have questions about what to expect during treatment and recovery. At Houston Community Surgical, I focus on helping patients understand their surgical options clearly so they can make informed decisions during this difficult time.

This guide explains what to expect from colon cancer surgery, including preparation, recovery timelines, and how different surgical approaches may affect your healing process.

Understanding Colon Cancer Staging and Why It Matters

Staging determines how far cancer has spread and guides every treatment decision I make.

In my practice, I use stage-specific surgical approaches to match each patient's unique situation. Stage 0 cancers are confined to the colon's inner lining, while Stage I cancers have grown into the submucosa or muscularis propria.

Stage II has grown through the colon wall but hasn't reached lymph nodes. Stage III involves lymph nodes near the tumor. Stage IV means cancer has spread to distant organs like the liver or lungs.

I remove lymph nodes during surgery to check for cancer spread. This information helps determine if you need chemotherapy after surgery. Medical guidelines recommend removing at least 12 lymph nodes during colon cancer surgery to ensure accurate staging.

Your cancer's location also matters. Right-sided tumours require different surgical techniques than left-sided ones. I consider tumour size, how it looks under the microscope, and whether it has blocked your colon.

Understanding your stage helps you know what to expect. Early-stage cancers often need only surgery. Later stages may require chemotherapy before or after the operation. Houston-area patients benefit from clear explanations of their specific stage so they can make informed decisions about their care.

Surgical Options for Colon Cancer in Houston: What to Expect

The main surgery for colon cancer removes the tumor, surrounding tissue, and nearby lymph nodes.

I perform a colectomy, which means removing the cancerous section of your colon. The amount I remove depends on where the tumor sits and how large it is. I also take out lymph nodes near the tumor to check for cancer spread. Then I reconnect the healthy ends of your colon so waste can pass normally.

Most patients can choose between traditional open surgery and minimally invasive techniques. Open surgery uses one larger incision across your abdomen. Minimally invasive surgery uses several small incisions with a camera and specialized instruments.

Some patients need a temporary colostomy if I can't safely reconnect the colon right away. This creates an opening in your abdomen where waste collects in a bag. In some cases, colostomies may be reversed in a second surgery after healing.

Emergency surgery becomes necessary if the tumor blocks your colon or causes a perforation. These situations require immediate treatment to prevent life-threatening complications.

I choose your surgical approach based on tumor location, your overall health, and whether you've had previous abdominal surgeries. Each option aims to remove all cancer while preserving as much normal bowel function as possible.

When facing treatment decisions, it's vital to understand the range of specialized colorectal care services available to you in Houston.

Minimally Invasive and Robotic Surgery: Benefits and Considerations

Robotic and laparoscopic techniques offer several advantages over traditional open surgery for appropriate candidates.

I use robotic assistance for complex cases where precision matters most. Research shows robotic surgery may reduce hospital stays and lower the chance of converting to open surgery during the procedure. The robotic system gives me enhanced visualization and more precise movements in tight spaces.

Studies suggest robotic approaches can reduce blood loss and lower complication rates compared to traditional laparoscopic surgery. Patients often experience less pain after surgery and return to normal activities sooner.

However, minimally invasive surgery isn't right for everyone. Very large tumors, extensive cancer spread, or previous abdominal surgeries may require open surgery. Major clinical trials show similar long-term cancer outcomes between robotic, laparoscopic, and open approaches when performed by experienced surgeons.

I evaluate each patient individually to determine the best surgical approach.

Your cancer stage, body type, and medical history all influence this decision. The goal remains the same regardless of technique: complete cancer removal with clear margins and adequate lymph node sampling.

Recovery time varies by approach, but most minimally invasive patients leave the hospital within three to five days. Open surgery typically requires five to seven days in the hospital.

Preparing for Colon Cancer Surgery: What Patients Should Know

Proper preparation helps ensure the best possible surgical outcome and smoother recovery.

I ask patients to complete several steps before surgery. You'll need blood tests, imaging scans, and possibly a cardiac evaluation depending on your age and health history. These tests help me plan your surgery safely and identify any concerns that need addressing first.

Bowel preparation clears your colon before surgery. You'll follow a clear liquid diet for one to two days and take prescribed laxatives. This process feels uncomfortable but significantly reduces infection risk during surgery.

Stop taking blood thinners, aspirin, and certain supplements at least one week before surgery unless I tell you otherwise. Some medications require adjustment rather than complete stopping. Bring a complete list of your medications to your pre-operative appointment.

Arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you for at least the first few days after surgery. You won't be able to drive while taking pain medication. Having help at home makes recovery easier and safer.

Plan for time away from work. Most patients need four to six weeks before returning to desk jobs. Physical jobs may require eight to twelve weeks off. I provide specific guidance based on your surgical approach and job requirements.

Pack comfortable, loose-fitting clothes for the hospital. Bring items that help you feel comfortable, but leave valuables at home.

Recovery After Colon Cancer Surgery: Timeline and Expectations

Recovery progresses through predictable stages, though individual experiences vary based on surgical approach and overall health.

Patients are encouraged to begin walking as soon as they feel ready after surgery. This movement prevents blood clots and helps your bowels wake up after anesthesia. You'll feel tired and sore, but early movement speeds overall recovery.

Your diet advances gradually from clear liquids to solid foods over several days. I monitor how your bowels respond before allowing regular meals. Some patients experience temporary changes in bowel habits that improve over weeks to months.

Pain management combines medications with non-drug approaches. Most patients transition from intravenous pain medication to pills within two days. I prescribe enough medication for home use but encourage reducing it as you heal.

Surgical drains and catheters typically come out before you leave the hospital. Incisions heal over two to three weeks. I remove staples or stitches at your follow-up appointment if needed.

Watch for warning signs that require immediate attention: fever above 101°F, increasing abdominal pain, redness spreading from incisions, inability to pass gas or stool, or persistent vomiting. Call my office right away if these occur.

Full recovery takes six to twelve weeks, depending on your surgical approach. Minimally invasive patients often return to normal activities sooner than those who had open surgery. I provide specific activity restrictions based on your procedure and healing progress.

Follow-up appointments monitor your recovery and review pathology results. These results determine if you need additional treatment like chemotherapy. I coordinate with oncologists to ensure you receive comprehensive care throughout your cancer journey.

Patients struggling with complications such as fecal incontinence after colon cancer surgery may benefit from advanced modalities such as Axonics sacral neuromodulation.

A Patient's Perspective

I've learned that hearing directly from patients often provides the most meaningful insight into what treatment really feels like.

Recently, I met with a patient named Mlyn who was preparing for an upcoming surgery. Her feedback reminded me why clear communication matters so much in surgical care.

"I met with Dr Belizaire for an upcoming surgery. I can't speak enough about how relatable Dr Belizaire is and how comfortable I felt with her explanation of the plan and her responses to my questions." —  Mlyn

This is one patient's experience; individual results may vary.

Feeling comfortable asking questions before colon cancer surgery helps reduce anxiety during an already difficult time. I make sure every patient understands their surgical plan completely before we proceed.

Conclusion

Understanding your surgical options helps you make informed decisions during a difficult time. Colon cancer surgery removes the tumour and surrounding tissue, with the approach tailored to your cancer stage, tumour location, and overall health.

I've guided hundreds of patients through this process as a board-certified general and colorectal surgeon and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons. Whether you need traditional open surgery or minimally invasive techniques, my focus remains on complete cancer removal while supporting your recovery and quality of life.

Multidisciplinary care and evidence-based surgical planning guide every treatment decision I make at Houston Community Surgical.

I serve Houston and nearby communities such as Houston Heights and the Medical Center. Nearby facilities include MD Anderson Cancer Center in the Texas Medical Center, which serves patients throughout the Houston area.

If you're experiencing persistent symptoms or have concerns after diagnosis, call my office at 832-979-5670 to request a prompt appointment. Not local? I also offer virtual second opinion case reviews at www.2ndscope.com.

Ready to take the next step? Schedule a same-day consultation with our Houston office to discuss your individual needs.

This article is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment options.

 Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What determines which type of colon cancer surgery I need?

Your cancer stage, tumor location, and overall health guide surgical planning. Early-stage cancers confined to the colon's inner lining may need less extensive surgery than tumors that have grown through the colon wall or spread to lymph nodes. I evaluate tumor size, how it appears under the microscope, and whether it has blocked your colon. Right-sided tumors require different techniques than left-sided ones. Your previous abdominal surgeries and body type also influence whether minimally invasive approaches are appropriate for your situation.

How long does recovery from colon cancer surgery typically take?

Recovery timelines vary based on your surgical approach and overall health. Most patients who undergo minimally invasive surgery leave the hospital within three to five days and return to desk jobs in four to six weeks. Open surgery typically requires five to seven days in the hospital and may need eight to twelve weeks before resuming physical work. You'll start walking the same day as surgery to prevent complications. Full recovery takes six to twelve weeks regardless of approach, with specific activity restrictions based on your healing progress.

Will I need chemotherapy after colon cancer surgery?

Chemotherapy decisions depend on your cancer stage and lymph node involvement. I remove at least twelve lymph nodes during surgery to check for cancer spread. Stage 0 and I cancers often need only surgery. Stage II may require chemotherapy if certain high-risk features are present. Stage III cancers that involve lymph nodes typically need chemotherapy after surgery. I coordinate with oncologists to review your pathology results and determine if additional treatment would benefit your specific situation.

Where can I find colon cancer surgery in Houston?

Dr. Ritha Belizaire at Houston Community Surgical provides physician-led evaluation and treatment for colon cancer surgery. Located in Houston, my practice focuses on clear answers, respectful care, and evidence-based surgical options. If you're unsure what's causing your symptoms or need guidance after a cancer diagnosis, scheduling a visit can help you understand next steps.