The colon or the large intestine forms the last part of the digestive tract. Its main function is to absorb water and electrolyes. The colon has 4 parts and travels through all quadrants of the abdomen. The rectum is the terminal part of the large intestine and is housed in the pelvis.

The colorectal and rectum are the seat of many diseases both benign and malignant. These problems mostly occur in the older population. Traditionally they were treated by open surgery, which entailed large painful scars and a prolonged recovery.

Laparoscopic surgery has changed this scenario totally. Through 4 to 5 small scars the entire colon or segments of it can be mobilised. A small 5 cms incision is then made to remove the diseased segment. Recovery is quick, patients start eating by the 3rd day and are home by the 5th day. Post operative problems are much less and patients well into their 70s and 80s make excellent recoveries.

Laparoscopic colo- rectal surgery is used to treat most cancers of the colon and rectum, with results as good as open surgery. Sigmoid diverticulitis and its complications are also eminently treated by a laparoscopic approach. Inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative and crohn’s colitis are other pathologies suitable for a laparoscopic approach.

For more details about laparoscopic colo- rectal surgery write or contact us.