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Colon Cancer Removal in Dnipro

Colon cancer (colorectal cancer) is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide. This pathology has a high mortality rate, but early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. Major risk factors include an unhealthy lifestyle, improper diet, genetic predisposition, and age over 50. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), colorectal cancer ranks third in terms of prevalence among all cancers, with over 1.9 million new cases diagnosed globally each year. This statistic emphasizes the importance of regular screenings for early detection of cancer and the implementation of appropriate treatment, which most often involves surgical removal of the tumor.

Factors for the Development of Colon Cancer

The risk of developing colon cancer increases with the presence of the following factors:

Age: Individuals over 50 years old are at higher risk.
Family history: A family history of colon cancer or adenomatous polyps increases the risk of developing the disease.
Inflammatory bowel diseases: Conditions such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can increase the likelihood of developing cancer.
Dietary habits: Regular consumption of harmful foods and poor dietary habits disrupt digestion processes.
Low physical activity: A sedentary lifestyle contributes to an increased risk of colon cancer.
Obesity
Smoking and alcohol consumption
Diabetes: People with type 2 diabetes have an increased risk of colon cancer.

Symptoms of Colon Tumors

The severity of colon tumor symptoms depends on the stage of the disease and the location of the pathological process. In the early stages, colon cancer can exhibit symptoms similar to other intestinal disorders, often manifesting as general digestive disturbances. Symptoms of colon cancer include:

Digestive disturbances (chronic diarrhea, constipation, bloating, etc.)
Blood in stool
Abdominal pain (frequent pain, cramps, or bloating)
Feeling of incomplete bowel movement
Significant weight loss without apparent reason
Fatigue and weakness: Constant fatigue that doesn’t subside after rest
Changes in stool shape (ribbon-shaped stools)
Loss of appetite
Unexplained fever

These symptoms could also be caused by other diseases, so it is important to consult a doctor for a precise diagnosis.

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Diagnosis of Colon Cancer

At the "Helyos" clinic, colon cancer diagnosis is handled by specialized gastroenterologists. During a consultation, the doctor collects a full medical history and may refer the patient for the following tests:

Colonoscopy: This is the main diagnostic method that allows for a visual inspection of the entire colon using a flexible tube with a camera.
Fecal occult blood test: Tests that detect the presence of blood in the stool, which may indicate polyps or cancer.
Biopsy: Tissue samples are taken during colonoscopy for laboratory analysis.
Blood tests: Tests for the level of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) can be used to assess disease progression and response to treatment.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Used to determine if cancer has spread to other organs and tissues.

These methods help doctors detect cancer in its early stages and determine the most effective treatment approach.

Colon Tumor Removal

The surgery to remove colon tumors, known as hemicolectomy, can be performed using various techniques depending on the location and size of the tumor. The general steps for treating colon cancer are as follows:

Preoperative assessments (ECG, pulse, blood tests)
Bowel preparation: A few days before surgery, the patient may be put on a special diet and take medications to cleanse the bowel.
Anesthesia: The surgery is performed under general anesthesia.
Laparotomy or laparoscopic access to the tumor: The surgeon makes an incision in the abdomen (open access) or several small incisions for laparoscopy (minimally invasive method). Laparoscopy is usually less invasive and leads to faster recovery.
Resection of the colon segment: The part of the colon containing the tumor is removed. This may include lymph nodes and, sometimes, adjacent tissue if affected.
Restoring the digestive tract or forming a colostomy
Stitching up and transferring the patient to the recovery ward for further monitoring

Recovery and Post-Operative Care After Colon Cancer Removal

Hemicolectomy is a complex surgical procedure that requires highly skilled doctors and modern equipment. To return to a normal lifestyle after part of the colon is removed, patients must undergo a lengthy rehabilitation process. The patient stays in the hospital for 3-7 days, adhering to specific bed rest and dietary instructions. Doctors take all necessary precautions to prevent post-operative complications, perform daily dressing changes, and administer medications. If a colostomy is necessary, the medical staff will provide training on how to care for it. Once the patient's condition stabilizes, they are sent home for recovery. The rehabilitation period after hemicolectomy lasts from 1 to 6 months, depending on the method used, the extent of the surgery, the patient's age, and overall health. During recovery, the patient must follow these guidelines:

Limit physical activity
Strictly follow a diet
Avoid harmful habits
Drink plenty of fluids
Take prescribed medications
Regular doctor visits

Patients with colon cancer may undergo additional treatments such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and others after hemicolectomy.

Prevention

To prevent the development or recurrence of colon cancer, the following recommendations should be followed:

Regular screening: Colonoscopy or other screening methods as recommended by a doctor, especially after the age of 50 or if there are risk factors.
Healthy diet: Include more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and fiber in the diet. Limit the intake of red meat, processed foods, and foods high in saturated fats.
Physical activity: Regular physical exercises (at least 150 minutes per week of moderate activity).
Maintain a healthy weight
Quit smoking and alcohol consumption
Take dietary supplements as recommended by a doctor: A specialist may recommend vitamin D and calcium, which may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
Control chronic bowel diseases and timely treatment

Following these guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of colon cancer and help maintain overall health.

Advantages of Surgical Treatment for Colon Cancer at Helyos Clinic

The medical center "Helyos" is equipped with all the necessary modern equipment for successfully performing surgeries of any complexity. Our doctors use a comprehensive, individualized approach for each patient, conduct thorough diagnostics, and choose the most effective treatment method. Experienced, highly qualified specialists at the "Helyos" clinic in Dnipro deliver the best results for treating colon cancer. Each patient room in the medical center is equipped with all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay before and after the surgical procedure.