There are a variety of diseases and conditions of the colon and rectum for which surgery is recommended. In addition to the decision to undergo surgery, patients are often faced with a choice of traditional or minimally invasive surgical techniques. In order to participate fully in the decision-making process, patients need information about the following issues:
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How is traditional “open” surgery performed?
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What is “minimally invasive" colon and rectal surgery?
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A description of the minimally invasive surgery techniques available
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The benefits and risks of minimally invasive surgery
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The types of operations and diseases for which minimally invasive surgery is appropriate
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Individual patient factors that must be considered
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Questions to discuss with the surgeon
Minimally invasive colon and rectal surgery is a continually changing field. Every year brings new information based on further refinements and increasing use of these techniques.
Learn more about minimally invasive surgery at ASCRS.