Which specialist performs rectal cancer surgery?

Rectal resection removes the tumour and a margin of nearby tissue. Depending on the tumour's position and the planned technique, the surgeon may reconnect the bowel or create a temporary or permanent stoma. Nearby lymph nodes are commonly removed for examination.

The surgical oncologist considers scan findings, the tumour's distance from the anal sphincter, bowel function and any treatment given before surgery. A colorectal surgeon, medical oncologist, radiation oncologist, stoma nurse and dietitian may contribute to planning and recovery.

Ask the team to explain the proposed operation, whether a stoma is likely, and how bowel habits may change. Bring your medicines and medical history, and tell them about previous abdominal surgery, bleeding medicines, urinary symptoms and your usual bowel function.

If a stoma may be needed, request a meeting with a stoma nurse before surgery. Discuss eating, movement, wound care, work and driving during recovery, and arrange support at home.

After surgery, contact the team for fever, increasing abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, a swollen abdomen, wound redness or discharge, or a stoma that changes colour or stops working with worsening discomfort. Severe pain, fainting or breathing difficulty requires emergency care.

Which surgical approach is recommended and why? Will I need a stoma, and could it be reversed? How will the operation affect bowel control? Is treatment needed before or after surgery? What warning signs should prompt a call?