what are after effects of cecectomy

[robert2243]

I was recently diagnosed with a malignant polyp, sessile, in my cecum.  CT scan report says it has not penetrated my colonic wall. My surgeon says that is too difficult to assume from a CT scan. I am going for a cecectomy in 9 days. I am told 7 to 10 inches of my colon will be removed. Afterward, several removed lymphnodes will be tested at lab and I will be informed as to what stage my cancer is. So basically I have 2 questions:
Since I had no polyps 2 years ago at  my last colonoscopy, what are odds that this polyp has reached a serious stage ?
Also, how will removal of my cecum affect my digestion and processing of food and fluids? I am a 68 year old male..

[robert2243]

Thank you.

[CalGal]

Robert, I can't address the issue of the 'odds.' I'm not sure anyone can tell you anything about that until the tissue is checked by a pathologist.

Whith the loss of (probably) the terminal ileum and some portion of the large colon/small colon, one of the things you will experience is the lack of a 'valve' that allows for measured amounts of contents to move from the end of the small intestine into the large intestine. You may find that you have more frequent bowel movements or fecal material passage into and through the large intestine. It it sometimes referred to as 'dumping' issues. In addition, if sections of the small intestine are removed - depending upon how much - you may find you don't absorb certain vitamins or mineral and may have to supplement to overcome the problems that may be associated with that.

Make sure to sit down with your doctor and talk the whole situation through. If necessary, get a recommendation to a good nutritionist who can help you figure out how you can modify your diet if necessary to hand the problems you might encounter.