Colon Cancer

What is colon cancer?

Most colon cancers stem from abnormal polyps on the inner surface of the colon. Over time, the cells in these growths mutate and cause the polyps to enlarge and grow into surrounding tissues, increasing their risk of turning cancerous. 

With state-of-the-art technology, Dr. Quinones and the team at Q&S Surgical can diagnose colon cancer and recommend the most targeted, least invasive treatment for your condition.

What are the signs of colon cancer?

The signs of colon cancer can vary. Common symptoms may include:

• Constipation or diarrhea
• Changes in stool consistency or color
• Narrow stool
• Feeling a lack of relief after a bowel movement
• Abdominal pain
• Increased gas or cramps
• Rectal bleeding
• Unexplained weight loss
• Weakness

Colon cancer is difficult to treat because it often causes no symptoms until it advances. Detecting the disease in its early stages is essential to slow its progression. If you experience any of the above symptoms, contact the team at Q&S Surgical for comprehensive testing.

What causes colon cancer?

Colon cancer develops when healthy cells in the colon mutate. As the cells grow and divide rapidly, they can become cancerous. While colon cancer isn’t always preventable, certain factors can increase your risk of developing the disease, including:

• Leading a sedentary lifestyle
• Following a low-fiber diet
• Having a family history of colon cancer
• Being overweight
• Smoking
• Consuming alcohol
• Having certain inherited syndromes
• Being African-American
• Being over age 50

Inflammatory bowel conditions, like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, also increase your risk of colon cancer.

How is colon cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosing colon cancer requires comprehensive screening. Dr. Quinones and the team may recommend a colonoscopy if you have an abnormal stool test or blood work, and if you are over 50 years old. If you are African American, you need a colonoscopy if you are 45 years of age.  A colonoscopy is a test that examines your entire colon for polyps and abnormal growths. The team may take biopsies during this procedure to test for colon cancer.

What are the treatments for colon cancer?

Q&S Surgical specializes in laparoscopic colon cancer surgery. Soon, Dr. Quinones will use the da Vinci® robotic surgical system for enhanced dexterity and precision when performing minimally invasive procedures.

Laparoscopic colon cancer surgery involves making several small incisions in the abdomen and inserting special tools along with a camera. 

The camera projects the inside of your abdomen to an outside monitor, allowing Dr. Quinones and the team to perform your procedure without opening your entire abdomen. This technique results in a shorter recovery period and a lower risk of infection.

Call Q&S Surgical today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about colon cancer.