A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V W

CANCER OF THE RECTUM

Why does Cancer of the Rectum occur ?

No known cause exists for single benign polyps. Multiple polyps occur in the condition of familial polyposis coli. This is a rare inherited condition which may progress to form cancers of the bowel. Lack of fibre in the diet may be an important contributory factor. Single polyps or inflammatory conditions of the large bowel (such as ulcerative colitis) may progress to bowel cancer over a long period of time.

Treatment Involved for Cancer of the Rectum

Polyps can be removed without open surgery. They may be removed while the colon is being examined through a colonoscope. This is a flexible telescope passed through the back passage into the large intestine. However, once a malignant growth or cancer of the colon or rectum has been diagnosed, this must be removed surgically. You will be admitted 1 2 days before operation to be given laxatives to cleanse the bowel. Enemas to empty the rectum may also be given. A liquid diet of high-calorie drinks will be commenced. Twenty-four hours before operation, only clear fluids (water, flavoured drinks, tea or coffee without milk) are allowed. The operation is done through the abdomen under general anaesthesia. Depending on the position of the growth, this is removed and the ends of the intestine joined up again. It may occasionally be impossible to join the bowel up after removal. In these situations, a colostomy may be required. A colostomy is where the bowel opens onto the surface of the abdomen. This allows motions to drain direct into an attached bag. Under the anaesthetic, tubes may be inserted for use during and after the operation. An intravenous drip will allow fluids, drugs, antibiotics or blood to be given. The drip will be kept in until intake of fluids and food by mouth can be recommenced. A tube passed through your nose into the stomach prevents the accumulation of liquid within the stomach. This is left in place until normal emptying of the stomach has returned. An abdominal drain tube may be placed within the abdominal cavity to drain away any blood or fluid which accumulates. This will be removed 2 7 days after surgery. A urine catheter may be passed into the bladder to remove urine. This prevents the need for the patient to get up to pass urine in the immediate post-operative period. It is removed when the patient's condition is stable. Small amounts of fluid given by mouth may be started immediately after the operation. Larger quantities are withheld until the surgeons are sure that your bowel activity has returned to normal. This usually takes between 5 and 7 days. Immediately following the operation, the physiotherapist will visit to instruct on breathing exercises. This will help ensure that chest infections do not occur.

During Treatment of Cancer of the Rectum

Painkillers may be required regularly in the first 48 72 hours following operation. There may be griping abdominal pain, followed by the passage of wind. A normal bowel action indicates that recovery is almost complete. Once motions are being passed regularly, a normal diet is resumed. Provided the wound is healing satisfactorily, discharge from hospital can take place.

After Treatment of Cancer of the Rectum

Growths of the bowel which are not treated will grow and spread. They may ulcerate, bleed and produce blood loss into the stools, causing anaemia. Some tumours may produce a blockage. Large tumours may invade neighbouring organs. Tumours may also spread to involve distant organs, in particular, the liver.

If Cancer of the Rectum is Left Untreated

Depending on progress, you will be allowed home about 10 days after surgery. It will probably be between 2 and 3 months before you will feel back to normal.

Effects on Family of Cancer of the Rectum

Patients with the condition of familial polyposis coli should have their relatives screened by colonoscopy. Some other types of cancer of the colon also tend to run in families, and your doctor may recommend that they have regular blood and other tests too: it is better to treat the condition as early as possible.