Performed by Dr. Ravi Chandra Reddy Obili at Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy
Colorectal surgery for malignant conditions is an operation to remove cancerous tissue from the large intestine (colon) or rectum. The procedure may involve removing part of the bowel along with surrounding lymph nodes, then reconnecting the healthy sections or creating a temporary or permanent stoma. Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy performs this surgery using open or minimally invasive techniques depending on the location and stage of the cancer.
We believe in honest, upfront disclosure so you can make an informed decision.
A step-by-step look at what happens during this procedure.
You are given general anaesthesia so you are asleep and feel no pain throughout the operation.
The surgeon makes an incision in the abdomen, or uses several small incisions for laparoscopic surgery, to reach the affected section of colon or rectum.
The cancerous segment of bowel is removed along with a margin of healthy tissue and the nearby lymph nodes, which are sent for examination.
The healthy ends of the bowel are joined together, or if healing conditions are not ideal, a temporary or permanent opening (stoma) is created on the abdomen to allow waste to pass into a collection bag.
The incisions are closed with stitches or staples, and dressings are applied.
A structured, patient-first approach from first consultation to full recovery.
Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy reviews all imaging, pathology reports and your medical history to plan the extent of resection and surgical approach that suits your situation.
The procedure is performed using open or laparoscopic methods depending on tumour size, location and complexity, aiming to remove the cancer with clear margins.
During surgery, surrounding organs and tissues are inspected for any spread, and lymph nodes are removed for staging and guiding further treatment.
Recovery is monitored in hospital with pain management, nutrition support and early mobilisation, and follow-up is arranged with oncology if additional treatment is needed.
What to expect at each stage of your recovery journey.
You will be monitored closely for pain, bowel function and any signs of complications. Fluids are given intravenously at first, then diet is advanced gradually. Walking is encouraged early to prevent complications like blood clots.
During the first few weeks at home, focus on rest, wound care, eating small frequent meals and avoiding heavy lifting. Energy levels improve gradually, and bowel patterns begin to stabilise.
Over the following months, strength returns and normal activities resume. If a stoma was created, learning stoma care and adjusting to its presence takes time and support. Timelines vary, and individual instructions from your surgical team take priority.
The procedure aims to remove the tumour along with clear margins and draining lymph nodes, which is essential for treating the cancer and determining its stage.
Surgery alone may not eliminate all cancer risk. Chemotherapy or radiotherapy may be recommended before or after surgery depending on the stage and pathology findings.
Most people regain bowel function, but changes such as increased frequency, urgency or looser stools can persist, especially after rectal surgery or if a large section of bowel is removed.
A stoma may be temporary to allow healing, or permanent depending on the location of the cancer and the ability to safely reconnect the bowel. Living with a stoma requires adjustment and ongoing support.
The right choice depends on your diagnosis, risks and circumstances — discussed with you at your consultation.
For very early or localised cancers, removing the tumour through a colonoscope may be possible. This option depends on size, depth and pathology, and is not suitable for more advanced disease.
Treatment with chemotherapy or radiation before surgery may be used to shrink tumours, especially rectal cancers, making them easier to remove. This approach is decided based on staging and tumour characteristics.
If surgery is not feasible due to advanced disease or other health conditions, palliative measures such as stenting, bypass procedures or medical management focus on relieving symptoms rather than removing the cancer.
Let's clear up some of the most common myths about colorectal surgery for malignant conditions.
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