Laparoscopic Colon Resection

This colon surgery in Israel is most often performed to treat colorectal cancer. According to national statistics, colorectal cancer ranks second among all types of malignant tumors in Israel. The average age of patients is 70, and risk increases with age. Those with inflammatory bowel conditions, polyps, or a family history of colon cancer are also at higher risk.

Symptoms vary by tumor location and may include rectal bleeding, blood in the stool, diarrhea or constipation (or both), intestinal obstruction, weight loss, abdominal pain, and general discomfort.

At Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, also known as Ichilov Hospital, the standard protocol for treating colon cancer includes colon resection in Israel, either partial or total. The extent of the operation depends on the tumor’s size and precise location.

Depending on the case, the colon may be removed entirely or partially.

Common types include:

• Sigmoidectomy: removal of the sigmoid colon, the last section of the large intestine.

• Cecectomy: removal of the cecum, the section that connects the small intestine with the large intestine.

In patients with large or difficult-to-reach tumors, neoadjuvant therapy (radiation and/or chemotherapy) may be used preoperatively to shrink the tumor and limit the required resection.

This colorectal surgery in Israel is performed under general anesthesia. A few hours before the procedure, a sedative is administered intravenously.

Colon resection may be done via open surgery or as a laparoscopic colon resection in Israel. In open surgery, a 25 cm abdominal incision is made, and the colon is detached, blood supply is cut off, and both tumor and surrounding healthy tissues are removed. Nearby lymph nodes may also be taken to prevent metastasis.

Tissues are sent for pathology to define a future treatment plan.

In laparoscopic colon resection without waiting, the surgeon creates 2–3 small incisions and inserts surgical instruments and a camera. The abdominal cavity is inflated with carbon dioxide to provide visibility. After removing the tumor, the surgeon decides whether to perform a bowel reconnection or create a temporary or permanent stoma (ileostomy or colostomy).

Laparoscopic surgery offers several advantages: smaller incisions, less postoperative pain, fewer scars, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stays. However, it’s not suitable for every patient. Conditions like obesity or abdominal adhesions may require conversion to open surgery during the procedure.

This no wait colon resection method ensures timely treatment for patients requiring urgent or elective operations.

General anesthesia.

2–3 hours.

After surgery, the patient spends two hours in a recovery room, then is transferred to a hospital ward. Within hours, the patient is encouraged to get out of bed. Hospitalization typically lasts around 10 days.

Pain is controlled with medications. A soft diet is started shortly after surgery, with a return to a regular diet within four days.

Early movement is recommended to prevent complications such as pneumonia.

Patients usually resume normal activity within three weeks. Sick leave of 4–6 weeks is advised. Strenuous physical activity and sexual intercourse should be avoided for 6–8 weeks. Driving should be avoided if dizziness or weakness occurs.

Incisions should be kept clean and dry.

Nurses train patients on stoma care if applicable. Patients with an ileostomy may undergo a second procedure weeks or months later to reconnect the intestines.

A follow-up visit is scheduled two weeks after discharge for stitch removal and consultation. The patient is then referred to the Israel colorectal surgery center for further treatment or oncology follow-up if needed.