Rectal Cancer Removal in Dnipro

Rectal cancer is one of the most common types of gastrointestinal cancers, diagnosed in over 700,000 people worldwide each year. The main symptoms of this disease may include blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits, and persistent abdominal discomfort. Regular screenings and colonoscopies help detect cancer at early stages, significantly increasing the chances of successful treatment. In Ukraine, as of 2023, around 8,000 new cases of rectal cancer are diagnosed annually. Treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, depending on the stage and spread of the disease.

Symptoms of Rectal Tumors

The main symptoms of rectal cancer include:

Blood in the stool – one of the most common signs, which may appear as bright red or dark blood in the feces;
Pain during defecation;
Changes in bowel habits – frequent constipation or diarrhea, as well as the feeling of incomplete emptying;
Abdominal pain or discomfort – the patient may experience cramping, bloating, or pain;
Changes in the shape of the stool (narrow, ribbon-like stools);
General weakness and fatigue – low energy and persistent tiredness that does not improve with rest;
Unexplained weight loss – a sudden drop in weight not associated with dietary or physical activity changes.

Diagnosis of Rectal Cancer

Rectal cancer diagnosis at Helyos Clinic in Dnipro is performed by leading proctology specialists. The examination includes the following steps:

Initial consultation – the doctor conducts a physical examination and collects information about symptoms, medical history, and family history. A digital rectal exam is also performed to detect possible changes in the rectal wall;
Laboratory tests – blood tests can reveal anemia, often associated with rectal cancer, and measure tumor markers such as carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA);
Endoscopic examinations – colonoscopy is used to visualize the inner surface of the colon and rectum, and to take a biopsy for histological analysis;
Other imaging methods – ultrasound can assess the depth of tumor invasion, while MRI may be used to detect metastases.

Women's health package

Women's health maxi package

Preoperative Preparation

Before surgery, the patient may undergo:

Additional tests, such as ECG, chest X-ray, and functional assessments to evaluate overall health;
Bowel cleansing, using laxatives or enemas;
Dietary changes – switching to a liquid diet a few days before surgery and fasting 12 hours before the procedure;
Medication preparation, which may include antibiotics to reduce infection risk and anticoagulants to prevent blood clots;
Consultation with an anesthesiologist;
Surgical planning, where the surgeon explains the procedure, risks, possible side effects, and recovery expectations.

Rectal Tumor Removal

Tumor removal at Helyos Clinic involves several key steps:

Anesthesia – general anesthesia is administered;
Access to the tumor – an abdominal incision (laparotomy) is made or laparoscopy is used;
Tumor excision – the tumor is removed along with a portion of healthy tissue to prevent recurrence;
Resection and anastomosis – the remaining sections of the intestine are sutured to restore continuity. In some cases, a temporary or permanent colostomy may be required;
Lymph node dissection – removal of nearby lymph nodes to prevent cancer spread;
Wound closure;
Transfer to a recovery room for post-operative monitoring.

Methods of Rectal Tumor Removal

The choice of surgical method depends on tumor location, size, spread, and the patient’s overall health. At Heyios Medical Center, surgeons specialize in:

Laparoscopic anterior resection of the rectum – a minimally invasive procedure involving removal of the cancer and part of the rectum using microinstruments through small incisions. The healthy parts of the rectum and sigmoid colon are then connected;
Total proctectomy – used in advanced stages, this procedure involves complete removal of the rectum (with or without the anus);
Hartmann's procedure – used when the cancer has spread to other parts of the bowel, this involves a more extensive surgery to address complications such as bowel obstruction.

Recovery After Rectal Cancer Surgery

The rehabilitation period typically lasts from several weeks to a few months, depending on the complexity of the operation and the patient’s condition. In the first few days after surgery, the patient stays in the hospital under medical supervision with vital signs monitored and pain managed. After discharge, it's important to follow dietary guidelines, starting with liquid food and gradually introducing solid meals. Gentle physical activity, such as walking, helps prevent complications and supports muscle recovery. Psychological support may also play an important role in rehabilitation. Regular follow-ups and adherence to medical advice are essential for a full recovery. Overall, recovery may take 6–12 weeks, though in some cases it may take longer.

Benefits of Surgical Treatment at Helyos Clinic

The highly qualified surgeons at Helyos Clinic have many years of experience treating all types of intestinal diseases. The clinic in Dnipro is equipped with state-of-the-art European medical technology and uses innovative methods for accurate diagnostics and effective treatment planning. Each patient receives personalized, comprehensive care aimed at fast recovery and a positive prognosis.