Laparoscopic Colectomy In Singapore

Dr Jonathan Foo Shuo Min
Consultant General Surgeon
Dr Tan Yu-Meng
Director, Consultant General Surgeon

What Is a Laparoscopic Colectomy?

A minimally invasive surgical procedure that involves the removal of a portion, or the entirety, of the colon. The procedure is carried out using specialised instruments with a tiny video camera attached, which allows surgeons to visualise and work within the abdominal cavity without making large incisions. Laparoscopic colectomy is often preferred due to its reduced recovery time compared to traditional open surgery.

Reasons For Doing Laparoscopic Colectomy

The primary reason is to treat diseases of the colon. Can also be beneficial in the removal of polyps that cannot be eliminated using a colonoscope, preventing them from becoming cancerous. The procedure is done to:

  • Remove cancerous tumours in the colon.
  • Treat diverticular disease, if causing severe symptoms.
  • Manage inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
  • In cases of colon polyps that are too large to remove by colonoscopy.

 

Am I eligible for Laparoscopic Colectomy?

The procedure is usually performed on those who:

  • Have colon cancer, especially if localised.
  • Suffer from severe diverticular disease are unresponsive to other treatments.
  • Have inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis that’s not responding to medication.
  • Suffer from large colon polyps that can’t be removed during a colonoscopy.

Laparoscopic Colectomy Procedure

Several small incisions are made in the abdomen for the laparoscope and other surgical tools to be inserted. Carbon dioxide gas is used to inflate the abdomen, providing a clear view and ample space to perform the surgery. The affected portion of the colon is removed and healthy sections are reattached (where possible). In some instances, a temporary or permanent colostomy might be necessary.

Recovery & Aftercare

The recovery process may be quicker and less painful than traditional surgery, due to the smaller incisions used. Patients can generally start eating and moving about within a day or two post-surgery. It may take up to a few weeks for a full recovery. Monitoring and regular check-ups are required to detect any potential complications early. Here are some aftercare tips:

Maintain a balanced diet

Ensure that your meals are high in protein and fibre, and low in fat. Stay well-hydrated.

Physical activity

After checking with your doctor, start engaging in consistent light physical activities such as walking.

Wound care

Keep the surgical site clean and dry, and watch for signs of infection.

Medication

Take all prescribed medications on time to manage pain and prevent complications.

Follow-up appointments

Do not miss your scheduled visits with your healthcare team.

Costs Of Laparoscopic Colectomy

The cost of a laparoscopic colectomy can vary depending on various factors, including the hospital or clinic, the surgeon’s expertise, the complexity of the procedure, and the geographical location.

Risks & Complications

Like any surgical procedure, laparoscopic colectomy also carries certain risks and potential complications:

  • Infection: Despite taking precautions, there’s a possibility of developing an infection at the incision site or within the abdomen.
  • Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during or after surgery can occur, although it’s rare.
  • Anastomotic leak: This is a complication where the reconnected areas of the colon leak, potentially leading to sepsis.
  • Adverse reaction to anaesthesia: Some people may have allergic reactions or other complications related to anaesthesia.

Dr Jonathan Foo Shuo Min

Consultant General Surgeon

Dr Jonathan Foo has expertise in managing various General Surgical and Colorectal conditions. He excels at advanced endoscopic, open and minimally invasive (“key-hole”) techniques, as well as robotic surgery.

Dr Foo is a specialist Colorectal surgeon with comprehensive training in other minimally invasive(laparoscopic) General Surgical conditions such as hernia repair and gallbladder surgery.

  • MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine & Surgery, NUS) 2002
  • MRCSEd (Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh) 2007
  • MMed (Master of Medicine in Surgery) 2008
  • Further Advanced Training At the Minimally Invasive Colorectal Unit in Portsmouth, UK

Dr Foo firmly believes that every surgical procedures must be customized to the individual in order to achieve an optimal outcome for his patients.

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Dr Tan Yu-Meng

Director, Consultant General Surgeon

Dr Tan continues to be one of few surgeons in Asia who perform specialized surgery for peritoneal malignancies in Asia.

  • MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine & Surgery, First Class Honors & Distinction at the University of London) 1994
  • RCSEd (Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh) 1999
  • Further training in advanced HPB surgery and liver transplantation at the world renowned Liver Unit of Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham, United Kingdom.
  • Further training in living donor liver transplantation in Japan.

With his interest in gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary-pancreatic (GI-HPB) surgery and the treatment of cancer, Dr Tan joined the department of surgical oncology at the National Cancer Centre in 2003 as a consultant.

Dr Tan’s interest in the management of peritoneal surface malignancies was part of his effort in leading a multidisciplinary team from NCC to Washington Cancer Institute to adopt the techniques and protocols of peritonectomy and HIPEC (Sugarbaker procedure) from Dr Paul Sugarbaker in 2009.

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    Laparoscopic Colectomy In Singapore

    Frequently Asked
    Questions

    Is laparoscopic colectomy a painful procedure?

    While the procedure itself is performed under anaesthesia, some discomfort or pain may be experienced during the recovery period. Pain can typically be managed effectively with medications.

    How long will I need to stay in the hospital after a laparoscopic colectomy?

    The hospital stay can vary from a few days to a week, depending on the patient’s overall health and recovery progress.

    Will I need a colostomy bag after a laparoscopic colectomy?

    Whether a colostomy bag is needed depends on the extent of the colon removed and the individual’s specific condition. A colostomy is often temporary and can be reversed after the colon has healed.

    Are there any dietary restrictions post-surgery?

    A specific diet plan will be recommended by your doctor. Initially, a low-residue or liquid diet might be advised, gradually transitioning to a regular diet as your colon recovers.