Anal and rectal cancer can be scary diagnoses, which is why we specialize only in the most effective of care. Depending on where your cancer is localized, you may have a couple of different options when it comes to the removal of the tumor. Most surgeries are used in conjunction with chemotherapy or radiation, so make sure to develop a full plan of treatment with your oncologist. In the meantime, let’s discuss your rectal cancer surgery options.
Most patients who have been diagnosed with rectal cancer will need some type of surgical procedure to remove the cancerous tissue. For many years, Abdominoperineal resection (APR) was the treatment of choice by colorectal specialists for most patients with rectal cancer. While modern technology has given additional choices for surgical procedures in patients with rectal cancer, APR is still a necessary modality in select patients. Below, we discuss the ins and outs of APR surgery including what it is, how it works, and complications associated with it.
