The most common symptoms of transverse colon cancer

Written by Sun Wei
Surgical Oncology
Updated on September 18, 2024
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The most common symptoms of transverse colon cancer mainly include abdominal pain, bloody stools, and changes in stool characteristics, such as thinner stools, which can sometimes lead to severe symptoms of intestinal obstruction. After these symptoms appear in transverse colon cancer, it is advisable to undergo a colonoscopy as soon as possible. Pathology obtained through the colonoscopy can confirm the diagnosis. Once transverse colon cancer is confirmed, it is also necessary to check for metastases to other parts of the body. For non-metastasized cases, early surgical treatment should be carried out, including a radical surgery for transverse colon cancer with lymph node dissection. Postoperative comprehensive anti-tumor treatment is generally required, involving six to eight courses of adjuvant chemotherapy. Postoperative chemotherapy aims to prevent local recurrence and distant metastasis.

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Written by Sun Wei
Surgical Oncology
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Is colon cancer surgery a major surgery?

Colon cancer surgery is considered a relatively major procedure, ranking as a class three or four surgery in general surgery. Generally, it involves the resection of the entire transverse colon or tumors located in other areas such as the ascending or descending colon, accompanied by the removal of surrounding lymph nodes, followed by intestinal anastomosis and digestive tract reconstruction. Post-surgery, comprehensive anti-tumor treatment is usually required. After colon cancer surgery, the main focus is on preventing intestinal leakage, which is a serious complication. Dietary intake needs to be gradually restored after surgery. Initially, the patient may only be able to consume liquid and easily digestible foods, gradually transitioning to semi-liquid and regular diets, while also paying attention to eating smaller, more frequent meals.

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Written by Sun Wei
Surgical Oncology
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How long can one live after colon cancer surgery?

If colon cancer can be treated surgically, generally, the outcomes might be quite good. It often applies to cancer in relatively early stages, with potentials to survive for over three years, five years, or even longer. Of course, there are cases of colon cancer that are discovered in later stages, where complete surgical removal is not possible, and only palliative stoma surgery can be performed. In such situations, the survival time might be within three to five years, but the exact life expectancy cannot be fully determined. Each individual's condition is different, and treatment must be adapted accordingly. Typically after surgery, treatments like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy might be used in combination to prolong survival.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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Is dry, pellet-like stool a symptom of colon cancer?

Dry, granular stools are not necessarily symptoms of colon cancer, but patients with colon cancer may also experience dry, granular stools. Therefore, after exhibiting the above symptoms, patients need to promptly complete an electronic colonoscopy to confirm the diagnosis of the disease. For example, if the symptoms are due to colon cancer, aggressive surgical treatment should be taken, followed by comprehensive treatment including radiotherapy and chemotherapy. If the symptoms are due to functional indigestion causing constipation, treatment should involve using medications to regulate the intestinal flora and relieve constipation.

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Written by Chen Tian Jing
Colorectal Surgery
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Differentiation between Colon Polyps and Colon Cancer

The most distinct diagnostic criteria between colon polyps and colon cancer are that colon polyps are benign lesions, whereas colon cancer is a malignant tumor of the intestines. Colon polyps are generally small in size or present as multiple polyps, with localized mucosal elevation. They may appear the size of mung beans or be pedunculated, and may be accompanied by mild abdominal pain, generally without blood in the stool. In contrast, during the onset of colon cancer, there is usually abdominal pain accompanied by bloody stools. In the later or advanced stages of colon cancer, after the tumor ruptures, it may also lead to severe gastrointestinal bleeding, as well as overall bodily wasting and anemia. The prognosis for colon polyps is relatively good; regular follow-up checks are sufficient. However, for colon cancer, if detected early, surgical removal can be an option. The survival rate in the middle and late stages is lower than in the early stage, and treatment may require a combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

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Written by Sun Wei
Surgical Oncology
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What are the symptoms of transverse colon cancer?

Transverse colon cancer is a type of colon cancer, belonging to malignant tumors of the digestive system. The main symptoms may include rectal bleeding, narrower stools, increased frequency of defecation, diarrhea, and it may also cause constipation. For instance, if the tumor in the transverse colon is large enough to block the intestinal lumen, it could lead to difficulty in defecating. Constipation or even signs of intestinal obstruction could occur. Generally, a diagnosis can be confirmed through an endoscopic biopsy. After diagnosis, transverse colon cancer can be treated surgically, primarily through curative surgery, followed by adjuvant chemotherapy and other comprehensive treatments.