Rectal Cancer Surgery
At Weill Cornell Medicine, we understand that rectal cancer treatment can be an overwhelming process for you and your caregiver. We provide a personalized rectal cancer treatment, which includes taking into account your chances at cure while balancing your quality of life, emotional, physical and financial well-being.
Your rectal cancer treatment team will include oncologists (doctors who specialize in cancer), radiation oncologists (doctors who specialize in radiation cancer treatment) and colon and rectal surgeons. Our team works closely together to develop a personalized and comprehensive treatment plan.
The Weill Cornell Medicine Colon and Rectal Surgery Division provides the most advanced treatment for rectal cancer. Internationally recognized as experts in treating rectal cancer at all stages. Our surgeons are at the forefront of clinical trials that include limiting radiation, chemotherapy and surgery for rectal cancer. Furthermore, our surgeons were the first adopters in minimal invasive and sphincter sparing treatments for rectal cancer.
Why Choose Weill Cornell Medicine?
Proven leadership and exemplary results: Our surgeons are leaders in rectal cancer surgical treatments. In fact, we offer a multitude of clinical trials that allow patients to limit treatment, while improving survivorship and organ preservation rates.
Learn more about the leading research by Weill Cornell Medicine surgeons about robotic rectal cancer resection.
Compassionate, personalized rectal cancer surgical treatment: Our doctors and surgeons evaluate each case individually. Our surgeons work closely with other specialists to determine the stage (extent) and exact location of your rectal cancer. This is a very important step in determining the most effective surgical treatment plan for you.
After evaluating your specific condition and overall health and lifestyle goals, your surgeon will tell you about the best treatment options for you. You will discuss what to expect during and after treatment.
As our patient, you will be assigned a nurse and care coordinator to help you throughout the entire process. Your nurse will be available to answer questions and prepare you for your surgery. Your care coordinator will manage your appointments and other details. You can directly contact your nurse and care coordinator at any point.
Multidisciplinary care: When you choose Weill Cornell Medicine, you have access to a network of doctors and specialists. Your surgeon will work closely with other members of your care team, including your oncologist and radiation oncologist.
In addition to your cancer care team, you have the option to receive additional support and expert guidance from the physicians at the Weill Cornell Medicine Integrative Health and Well-Being Program and Department of Psychiatry. You also have access to nutrition counseling, social work services, rehabilitation care and support groups.
Weill Cornell Medicine partners with NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the top hospital systems in New York City and the U.S.
Conditions We Treat
The rectum is the organ that connects the colon to the anus. At Weill Cornell Medicine, our surgeons have extensive training, experience and expertise in the treatment of rectal cancer.
There are many treatments options available for treating rectal cancer. Our surgeons will offer the best options for your long-term health and quality of life. You will discuss the benefits, risks and the specifics of what to expect for each surgical option.
Surgical Treatments for Rectal Cancer
Our surgeon’s goal is to preserve your rectum, if possible, however, if you need surgery, we offer the full technical realm of rectal cancer treatment.
The type of surgical treatment performed depends on the size and location of the cancer, as well as other factors. You and your doctor will discuss the procedure, its benefits, its risks and what to expect.
Surgical Treatments for Rectal Cancer
The type of surgical treatment performed depends on the size and location of the cancer, as well as other factors. Several times before your procedure, you and your doctor will discuss the procedure, its benefits, its risks and what to expect.
Local transanal resection or excision: This procedure removes early-stage rectal cancer from the lower rectum using tools that are inserted through the rectum.
Transanal endoscopic surgery: This procedure removes larger-sized tumors that may be located where it is difficult to remove through local transanal resection. The surgeon uses an endoscope (a thin tube with a light) to better see and remove the tumor.
Low anterior resection: This procedure treats cancerous tumors located in the middle and lower rectum. The surgeon removes the portion of rectum. The colon is then attached to the rectum/anus. This procedure may require a short-term diversion of stool via stoma. This is reserved for the very low rectal cancers to allow for proper healing of the colon to the low rectum and/or anus.
Abdominoperineal resection: This procedure treats cancerous tumors located in the very low rectum involving sphincter complex (muscle that allow you to control your ability hold your stool). The surgeon removes the rectum, as well as the anus and sphincter muscles. This procedure requires a permanent colostomy.
What to Expect During Your Surgery at Weill Cornell Medicine
Our patients receive the most cutting-edge surgery. This includes minimal invasive robotic and laparoscopic techniques. Our patients will be placed on an enhanced recovery protocol which emphasizes improved pain management with non-narcotic medications, early mobilization and early feeding. We expect you to go home in 1-3 days post-surgery, being able to eat a regular diet with minimal assistance from loved ones.
At Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian, we support our patients and their loved ones throughout rectal cancer surgical treatment. Learn more about what to expect when preparing for your surgery and during your stay.
Make an Appointment
Whether you visit us virtually through a video visit or you see us in person, you can be assured that we will deliver the highest standards of care with compassion. Our team has taken every step to keep our facilities safe for you to continue your care. Learn more about our safety measures and the changes, we’ve made to enhance your patient experience.
If you would like a remote second opinion, we can connect you directly with expert physicians and specialists at the Weill Cornell Medicine Colon and Rectal Surgery Division. They will review your individual situation, answer your questions and provide you with information you can share with your family and local practitioner. You can then decide to come to our facilities for treatment or choose to stay in your hometown and receive treatment locally. Learn more at WCM OnDemand Second Opinion.
To request an appointment, please fill out our form. Our staff will help you find the physician who best fits your individual medical needs.
Meet Our Surgeons
The surgeons at the Weill Cornell Medicine Colon and Rectal Surgery Division offer patients the highest level of safety and care. As a top-ranked academic medical center, you have access to our extensive network of specialists who provide seamless care throughout your treatment — to promote long-term physical and mental health.
