Here is what you should do to prepare for colorectal surgery when diagnosed with colon cancer

Here is what you should do to prepare for colorectal surgery when diagnosed with colon cancer

A lot of symptoms of conditions or diseases affecting the intestines are also similar to one another, so getting checked by a doctor will lead to a proper diagnosis. If you are bothered that tha symptoms you currently have may be an indication of a more serious condition, then you may consider getting a colonoscopy procedure done. In addition to this, a patient diagnosed with colorectal cancer may be subject to undergoing colorectal surgery. Consult a qualified surgeon about colorectal surgery in Singapore at https://www.thomashosurgery.com/colorectal-surgery/.

Colorectal cancer mainly affects the body’s colon or rectum. This disease is prevalent among adults who are in the age of 50 or older. Those people who are at high risk of developing this sickness at an age younger than 50 usually come from a family which has a medical history of colorectal or colon cancer. Aside from this, other risks like being diagnosed with a type of inflammatory bowel disease and poor diet and lifestyle choices can also be factors that can contribute to the development of this cancer.

If you are scheduled for a colorectal surgery, it is best that you are prepared for your operation beforehand. Here are facts that you should know on how to get yourself ready for your surgery.

Preparing for your colorectal surgery

Weeks before your surgery

The doctor who will handle your colorectal surgery will brief you about what preparations are needed prior to your scheduled operation. During this time, you should also inform your designated doctor about all the medications you are taking, including vitamins, supplements, and recreational drugs. Let them know about your allergies as well. With these in mind, your doctor will be able to guide you properly with your preparations. This is also the time when you can ask your doctor anything that bothers you regarding the procedure. In some cases, some patients may be advised to book a consultation with their cardiologist or other medical providers for a health assessment or pre-surgical testing requirements, like blood and urine tests, electrocardiogram, ultrasound, X-ray, etc. 

Depending on your case, you may need to stay in the hospital during your recovery. It is important that you are already able to have things in order at home and at work. Request a family member or a friend to assist you in case you need to spend some time in the hospital. You will also need help when it is time to go home. 

Exercising is also highly recommended to be a part of your preparation to ensure that your body is in top shape. If you smoke, expect that your doctor will request you to stop smoking as part of your preparation.

A week before your surgery

Your doctor will give you instructions to stop taking medications that can increase the risk of bleeding during the surgery, such as aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Any other medications, vitamins, or supplements should also not be taken, as per your doctor’s guidance. You will also be given a list of supplies that you need to have while preparing for your surgery and for aftercare, if any. 

A day before your surgery

Your doctor may require you to undergo bowel preparation one day before your scheduled colorectal surgery. It is important that you stick to a liquid diet composed of food and drinks that are clear or free from colouring. Stay away from solid foods. It is best to consume clear broths and stay hydrated with lots of water or sports drinks. It is recommended to drink at least eight (8) ounces of liquid every hour while you are awake. Do not forget to take any medicine prescribed by your doctor.

On the day of your surgery

Remember not to eat or drink anything by the time the clock strikes midnight on the day of your surgery. Medications needed to take on the day of the surgery should be done with only a few sips of water. Dress up in loose and comfortable clothes when you leave for the hospital. Also, leave valuable accessories at home. If you wear contact lenses, swap this with your pair of spectacles as these can damage your eyes when you are put in sedation and in a sleep-state during the operation. Skip putting on makeup, deodorant, lotion, perfume, powder, or cream. Be sure that you have someone accompanying and assisting you the entire time that you are in the hospital for the surgery and even after, especially when you need to stay in for recovery. You may need to stay for at most a week, given that there are no complications from the surgery.

If you have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer, you must know that getting colorectal surgery is just one step to getting better. It is vital that you follow your doctor’s treatment and, most importantly, make it a habit to make good choices that will help your colon be in excellent health.