What is Colon Cancer?
Colon cancer is a cancerous mass within the large intestine, otherwise known as the colon. Colon cancer can cause bleeding with bowel movements, anemia (low blood counts), abdominal discomfort, or a change in bowel habits. More often, colon cancer causes no symptoms and is detected during a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is recommended for all individuals age 45 or older. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, you may be advised to start screening at a younger age.
Colon Cancer Surgery
Colon cancer is usually treated surgically by removing the segment of the colon that contains the cancer, and attaching the ends of the colon back together. Often these surgeries are done in a minimally invasive fashion, using a laparoscopic or robotic approach and small incisions to lessen discomfort and hasten recovery.