When should I have a follow-up check after rectal cancer treatment? Can the anus be preserved after rectal cancer surgery?

Rectal cancer refers to cancer that occurs between the dentate line and the junction of the rectum and sigmoid colon. It is one of the most common malignant tumors of the digestive tract. Due to its low location, rectal cancer is easily diagnosed by rectal digital examination and sigmoidoscopy. However, due to its deep location in the pelvic cavity and complex anatomical relationships, it is not easy to perform a thorough surgery and the recurrence rate after surgery is high, so follow-up examinations after treatment are very important. Today, let's follow Deng Junhui, deputy chief physician of Huizhou Central People's Hospital, to learn more about rectal cancer.

Can the anus be preserved in the case of rectal cancer?

Patients with rectal cancer can keep their anus. With the development of pathological research, laparoscopic technology and instruments, more and more patients with low rectal cancer and ultra-low rectal cancer can keep their anus. However, it is still necessary to make it clear that early detection and early treatment are the basis for ultra-low rectal cancer to keep the anus. Develop good eating habits, pay attention to physical warning signs such as blood in the stool, frequent stool, tenesmus, etc., and seek medical treatment in time without being shy.

How to follow up after rectal cancer treatment?

Within two years after the treatment of rectal cancer, a follow-up examination is generally required every 3-6 months. Because rectal cancer treatment may recur or metastasize, it is recommended to follow up with the prescribed follow-up examination, which includes monitoring of tumor indicators, abdominal and pelvic ultrasound examination, chest X-ray examination, abdominal CT, and MRI. Adenomas found during follow-up examinations should be removed. If the preoperative colonoscopy is not completed in full, the procuratorate recommends completing it as soon as possible within 3-6 months after surgery.

In the early stage after surgery, patients with rectal cancer should eat easily digestible foods with less residue, such as egg custard, minced meat, enteral nutrition solution, etc.; eat more fresh fruits and vegetables to keep bowel movements smooth; gradually transition to a normal diet after surgery, and eat more foods high in fiber. If patients have digestive and absorption disorders or water and electrolyte disorders, they should be examined in time and given appropriate salt and high-protein supplements based on the examination results.