I have colorectal cancer with a 3.5 cm tumour in the mid part of my rectum

I have colorectal cancer with a 3.5 cm tumour in the mid part of my rectum   I hope to have this excised by keyhole surgery.

My consultant is a bit doubtful about this as six months ago I had my gall bladder removed without any problems by keyhole surgery.and he says there may be internal scarring

is this fact likely to mean I will have to have open surgery instead with a Stoma and bag rather than keyhole surgery without needing a Stoma?

Do I need a second opinion?

  • Hello and thanks for your post

    I’m afraid as nurses we are unable to give you a medical opinion on your surgical options. This needs to come from your specialist team.

    Scar tissue from previous surgery can be a problem. There is a chance that the scar tissue may be thicker making keyhole surgery a bit more tricky or impossible to do. Often surgeons will not know this until they go in and have a look. So getting a second opinion on this may not necessarily help. 

    I wonder if you have a specialist nurse involved in your care who may be able to provide you with further information and support. You often have to call and leave them a message and they will get back to you.  

    I hope you know more about your situation soon and that everything goes well for you, Give us a ring if you would like to talk anything over. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Best wishes,

    Celene