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.
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Preparation involves several mandatory steps. A few days before surgical treatment of rectal cancer, it is recommended to switch to a light, doctor-recommended diet and increase water intake. As directed by the doctor, blood-thinning medications should be temporarily discontinued. The day before, bowel cleansing is performed using a method determined by the doctor. The operation is performed on an empty stomach: the last meal should be 8–12 hours before surgery. The patient receives detailed preparation recommendations at the pre-operative consultation at Helios Medical Center.
Diagnosis of rectal cancer begins with a colonoscopy with biopsy. This allows the diagnosis to be verified morphologically. Transrectal ultrasound is used to assess the local spread of the tumor. Computed tomography of the chest and abdominal organs supported by artificial intelligence makes it possible to rule out distant metastases and accurately assess the extent of the process. Laboratory tests, including the CEA tumor marker, complete the picture and serve as a baseline indicator for follow-up monitoring after treatment. All examinations are performed at Helios Medical Center.
After laparoscopic surgery for rectal cancer, the patient usually stays in hospital for 1–3 days. Full recovery takes an average of 6–12 weeks, depending on the extent of the operation. During the first weeks, a gradual transition from liquid to solid food, limited physical activity, and regular follow-up examinations are recommended. The cost of surgery for rectal cancer and rehabilitation can be clarified at a consultation with an oncological surgeon at Helios Medical Center. Appointments can be made by phone at 067 000 01 50 or through the online form on the website.
The need to create a stoma as part of surgery for colon cancer depends on the location of the tumor, the extent of resection, and the condition of the tissues. For tumors in the upper and middle parts of the rectum, a sphincter-preserving operation without bowel stoma can be performed in most cases. For tumors in the lower parts of the rectum, the surgeon often creates a temporary protective stoma as a precaution. In most cases, it is closed after a few months. The oncological surgeon will make the specific decision based on the results of the examination.
The prognosis for rectal cancer is largely determined by the stage of the disease at the time of presentation. According to Yale School of Medicine, when the tumor is detected before it spreads beyond the rectum, the five-year survival rate reaches 89%. With timely diagnosis, rectal cancer responds well to treatment. The oncological surgeons at Helios Medical Center use modern surgical techniques aimed at the most complete removal of the tumor.
