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Digestive Health Institute
Large & Small Intestine Cancer
What Are Intestinal Cancers?
Intestinal cancers happen when abnormal cells grow in the small or large intestine (also known as the colon). These cancers can affect how your body digests food and absorbs nutrients.
- The small intestine connects your stomach to your large intestine and helps absorb nutrients.
- The large intestine (colon and rectum) absorbs water and forms stool.
Signs & Symptoms:
Symptoms may vary, but common signs include:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation)
- Blood in the stool
- Constant tiredness
- Stomach pain or cramps
- Feeling full quickly or loss of appetite or reduced hunger
If you have any of these symptoms for more than a few weeks, it’s important to get checked.
How Are These Cancers Treated?
Treatment usually involves surgery, and in some cases, chemotherapy or radiation.
Small Intestine Cancer Surgeries
- Segmental Resection (Small Bowel Resection) : Removal of the cancerous section of the small intestine with a margin of healthy tissue, followed by reconnection (anastomosis).
- Whipple Procedure (Pancreaticoduodenectomy) : Performed if the tumor is in the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine), especially near the pancreas.
- Laparoscopic or Robotic Resection : Minimally invasive options for eligible cases, offering quicker recovery and smaller incisions.
- Debulking Surgery : For advanced cases where complete removal isn't possible, to reduce tumor size and relieve symptoms.
Large Intestine (Colon and Rectal) Cancer Surgeries
– Colectomy (Colon Resection):
- Partial Colectomy: Removal of the cancerous part of the colon and nearby lymph nodes.
- Total Colectomy: Removal of the entire colon in more extensive disease.
- Proctectomy: Removal of part or all of the rectum (for rectal cancer).
- Proctocolectomy with Ileostomy: Removal of both colon and rectum, often followed by the creation of a stoma (ileostomy).
- Colostomy or Ileostomy Creation: May be temporary or permanent, based on the extent and location of the cancer and resection.
- Transanal Minimally Invasive Surgery (TAMIS): For early-stage rectal cancers, done through the anus without external incisions.
- Pelvic Exenteration: For advanced rectal cancers involving nearby organs—removal of the rectum and surrounding structures.
What is the Hospital Stay & Recovery Time?
- Surgery Duration: Typically 1 to 3 hours
- Hospital Stay: Usually 2-3 days
- Recovery: Most patients resume normal activities such as climbing stairs, returning to work, and driving within 1 to 2 weeks
Will I need nutritional support during and after treatment?
Often yes. Treatment can affect digestion and absorption, so dietitians can help plan meals, supplements, or tube feeding if needed.
What lifestyle changes can improve my prognosis?
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Eat a balanced diet
- Stay physically active
- Follow up regularly with your healthcare team
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