Types of surgery for colorectal cancer
There are several types of colorectal cancer surgeries. The specific surgery is determined by the location of the disease.
Surgery as treatment for colorectal cancer
Surgery is the most common treatment for early-stage colorectal cancer. The surgery type depends on the stage and location of the cancer. Colorectal surgery involves the removal of the tumor and some of the surrounding tissue. Removing all or part of the colon is called a colectomy. This kind of surgery is called a surgical resection. Cancer that can be completely removed with surgery is called resectable.
What is a colectomy and what to expect
If your doctor has recommended a colectomy as part of your treatment for colorectal cancer, check out this video to learn more about the surgery.
Common surgeries for colorectal cancer
Below are the most common colorectal cancer surgeries. Click on each to learn more.
Right hemicolectomy
In this procedure, the surgeon removes the ascending colon and a portion of the transverse colon, and then connects the transverse colon to the end of the small intestine.
Sigmoid colectomy
In this procedure, the surgeon removes the diseased part of the sigmoid colon and then connects the descending colon to the rectum
Left hemicolectomy
In this procedure, the surgeon removes a portion of the transverse colon, the descending colon, and the sigmoid colon, and then connects the transverse colon to the rectum.
Low anterior resection (LAR)
In this procedure, the surgeon removes the diseased portion of the rectum and the sigmoid colon.
What side are you on?
Research suggests that there are biological differences between left-sided and right-sided colon cancers.
That means that where a tumor starts to grow in the large intestine will determine treatment and prognosis.
It's important to understand on which side your colorectal cancer began.
No one should experience colorectal cancer alone
Our national network of survivors and advocates are standing by. Whether you have questions about surgery or just need to vent — there is tremendous strength in our community.
Top resources
Lexie Haglund: Beating stage IV CRC
Discover how knowing her G12C biomarker guided Lexie’s stage IV colorectal cancer treatment — from a shock diagnosis to HIPEC surgery — and why screening, research, and self-advocacy matter.
HAI liver pump for mCRC offers second chances
Discover how Hope overcame stage IV colorectal cancer with an innovative HAI liver pump, staying active and proving that second chances are possible.
Treatment for KRAS G12C-mutated metastatic CRC approved by FDA
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved sotorasib in combination with panitumumab for the treatment of adult patients with KRAS G12C-mutated metastatic colorectal cancer.