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Introduction to Colorectal Cancer
Learn about the causes, symptoms, risk factors, prevention, treatment, and management of colorectal cancer. By the end of this course, you will have a better understanding of colorectal cancer and how to prevent, detect, and manage it.
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Not Just A Gut Feeling: Understanding Colorectal Cancer
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What are Laparoscopic and Robotic-Assisted surgery?

Laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery are two minimally invasive surgical techniques commonly used in the treatment of colorectal cancer. Both approaches offer several advantages over traditional open surgery, including smaller incisions, reduced postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery.


Here’s an overview of laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery for colorectal cancer:


Laparoscopic Surgery. Laparoscopic surgery, also known as keyhole surgery, involves making several small incisions in the abdomen. Specialized surgical instruments and a camera called a laparoscope are inserted through these incisions to perform the surgery. The laparoscope provides a magnified view of the surgical area, allowing the surgeon to perform precise movements.


Carbon dioxide gas is used to inflate the abdomen, creating space to work and providing a clear view. The surgeon manipulates the instruments from outside the body to remove the cancerous portion of the colon or rectum. In some cases, an incision may be made to remove the specimen from the body. The remaining healthy segments of the colon or rectum are then joined together (anastomosis) using sutures or staples.


Laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer offers benefits such as reduced scarring, less blood loss, and faster recovery compared to open surgery.


Robotic-assisted Surgery. Robotic-assisted surgery utilizes robotic technology to aid in performing surgical procedures. The surgeon controls the robotic system from a console, guiding the movements of robotic arms equipped with surgical instruments. A high-definition 3D camera provides a detailed view of the surgical site.


Robotic-assisted surgery offers enhanced precision, dexterity, and range of motion compared to laparoscopic or open surgery. The robotic system translates the surgeon’s hand movements into smaller, more precise movements of the robotic instruments. This technology allows for better access to hard-to-reach areas and precise dissection of tissue.


The benefits of robotic-assisted surgery for colorectal cancer include improved visualization, reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and potentially faster recovery.


It’s important to note that the choice between laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery depends on various factors, including the surgeon’s expertise, availability of robotic technology, and individual patient characteristics. Each patient’s case is unique, and the surgical approach is determined through a thorough evaluation by the surgical team. They consider factors such as the stage and location of the cancer, patient’s overall health, and the potential benefits and risks associated with each technique.