colon surgery

[birdy]

A tumour was identified on the close to rectum portion of the colon. Doctor said it could be cancer. Something else shows in the x-ray close to the joint with the small intestine. Not yet identified. Doctor said it may be necessary to remove the whole part (approx. 5 feet)and to be left with a small portion of the colon (he says sufficient). I am one week away from the colonoscopy which will be decisive. surgery seems to be obvious. I don't know if I should just let the doctor decide or ask for more tests. I feel well, did't lose weight, no cancer in the family, same appetite... however, occasionally, I have blood in my stool.(I am almost 70, I have a heart condition - am on blood thinner medication)

[katey]

Colon cancer is SOOOOo curable when its found early that you may want to consider your doctors advice if he/she suggests removing your colon.  I'm not sure how far and large the tumor is, but you could mention the "j" pouch to your doc.  The "j" pouch allows you to go to the washroom like you normally would, instead of having a colostomy.  Even if the "j" pouch isn't an option, you can still have a totally healthy live living with a colostomy (i hope i'm spelling this right, hehe).  A lady that i've known for years has a colostomy, and she wears a bathing suit, travels, and does everything anyone else would do, if not probably more.  The "j" pouch, i believe, isn't possible when the tumor is too close to the end of the rectum because thats whats needed to make the pouch to hold the stool instead of having your colon.  I wish you luck, and please don't be scared!!!   you'll be fine.  merry christmas!!
katie

[birdy]

Thank you. I have no choice but hoping

[Dilli]

Birdy.....I just had a Colectomy on Dec 5th 2001, at age 35 Male.  The Doctors removed 3 feet of my Colon and my Appendix because I had unkown  Diverticulitis.  

If the Doctors say it might be Cancer, get a second opinion if you feel needed. But Cancer is a must to be removed ASAP..   Cancers are so treatable when caught early on.   I fell ill in 2 days then my wife  rushed me to the Hospital in total pain.    

My Colon ruptured caused by the Diverticulitis and the bowel infected my abdomen,  doctor delayed immediate surgery & fought infection for 1 week with Anti-Biotic's in hope's of just replacing the dieased part of the Colon, which in my case is also very low to the Rectum, and reattach it back all in one surgery,  50/50 chance, I lost and I now wear a Colostomy bag!

But I'm glad to say I am ALIVE and moblie.  Please dont be afraid of the upcoming surgery.  Stay strong minded and WALK, WALK,WALK.   Thats what brought me home in time for Christmas with my family.


I hope this message bring's you some comfort in knowing, hey, there's always someone else  more SCREWED up than me!


From one stranger to another,  God SPEED, and GOOD LUCK Birdy!

               sincerely, Dilli    

EMail me anytime if I can help,  I need a ear also!
***@****

PS.   Here are some Medical sites I found useful after I came home 24 days later from the Hospital.

http://aolsvc.health.webmd.aol.com/medcast_channel_toc/1686

[birdy]

Thank you so much for your support. Very soon I might need more advice. Happy New Year and I am glad for you feeling better now.