Our Summary

This research paper compared two types of surgery for sigmoid cancer, which is a type of colorectal cancer. The two types of surgeries are open sigmoidectomy (OS), which is a traditional open surgery, and three-port hand-assisted laparoscopic sigmoidectomy (HALS), which is a minimally invasive surgery.

The study looked at 100 patients who had one of these surgeries at the Department of Surgery, Siriraj Hospital. The results showed that patients who had the HALS surgery had less blood loss and were able to eat regular food more quickly after surgery. They also reported less pain and the cost of their hospital stay was lower.

One of the main reasons for the lower cost was a lower rate of infection in the HALS group. However, the actual operation cost was higher for HALS, but overall, there was no significant difference in total costs between the two types of surgeries.

The study concluded that the three-port HALS is a good option for sigmoid cancer surgery because of its better short-term outcomes and similar total costs to the traditional open surgery.

FAQs

  1. What are the two types of surgeries for sigmoid cancer mentioned in the research paper?
  2. What were the benefits of the three-port hand-assisted laparoscopic sigmoidectomy (HALS) surgery as found in the research?
  3. Was there a significant difference in the total costs between the open sigmoidectomy and the three-port HALS?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor may advise a patient undergoing sigmoidectomy to consider a minimally invasive surgery such as three-port hand-assisted laparoscopic sigmoidectomy (HALS) due to its benefits such as less blood loss, quicker recovery time, lower pain levels, and lower risk of infection compared to traditional open surgery. It is important to discuss the best option for surgery with your doctor based on your individual case and needs.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended sigmoidectomy include those with sigmoid colon cancer, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease, or other conditions that affect the sigmoid colon. These patients may experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, or a mass in the abdomen.

It is important for patients to discuss their individual case with their healthcare provider to determine if sigmoidectomy is the appropriate treatment option for them. Factors such as the stage of the disease, overall health, and personal preferences will all play a role in determining the best course of treatment for each patient.

Timeline

Before sigmoidectomy:

  • Patient is diagnosed with sigmoid cancer through various tests such as colonoscopy or CT scans.
  • Patient undergoes preoperative preparation, which may include bowel preparation and dietary restrictions.
  • Patient meets with their surgeon to discuss the surgery, risks, and recovery process.
  • Patient undergoes the sigmoidectomy surgery, either through open sigmoidectomy or three-port hand-assisted laparoscopic sigmoidectomy.

After sigmoidectomy:

  • Patient is monitored in the hospital for a few days for any complications or issues.
  • Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and fatigue post-surgery.
  • Patient gradually resumes eating solid food and begins walking and moving around.
  • Patient is discharged from the hospital and continues their recovery at home.
  • Patient may need to follow a special diet, take pain medications, and attend follow-up appointments with their surgeon.

Overall, the recovery process after sigmoidectomy can vary for each patient, but with proper care and follow-up, most patients are able to resume their normal activities within a few weeks to months after surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with sigmoidectomy surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery time and what can I expect during the recovery process?
  3. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes or follow a specific diet after the surgery?
  4. Are there any long-term effects or complications that I should be aware of?
  5. Will I need any additional treatments or follow-up care after the surgery?
  6. How experienced are you in performing sigmoidectomy surgeries, specifically the type of surgery being recommended for me?
  7. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider?
  8. Will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery, and if so, for how long?
  9. What can I do to prepare for the surgery and improve my chances of a successful outcome?
  10. How soon after the surgery can I resume normal activities and work?

Reference

Authors: Phothong N, Akaraviputh T, Chinswangwatanakul V, Methasate A, Trakarnsanga A. Journal: J Med Assoc Thai. 2015 Sep;98(9):864-70. PMID: 26591396