What are preoperative procedures for colorectal cancer and why?

Answer 1

Since each patient's treatment is individual, depending on whether the cancer is invasive or just a single tumor or possible metastases, you should ask your doctor this question. Informed consent (meaning you understand the implications and pre-op care) is required before surgery is performed. If you still have questions, you should call your doctor or your primary care nurse and ASK. That's the only way to make absolutely certain you are well-prepared and your cancer can be treated appropriately without postponing anything.

Answer 2

Aside from the clerical answer above, preoperative care within 24 hrs of the procedure also consist of consuming nothing by mouth (or only clear liquids up to 8 hrs before) as well as taking a prep. This prep has a laxative effect that will be taken in the form of a liquid until the end result is a clear fluid being passed to provide the MD with a clean-slate (if you will) to work with.

Answer 3

you will receive a laxative, such as go lytely or perhaps mag citrate. This will cleanse the colon as to allow the physician to visualize your colon without having fecal material blocking view. You will be nothing by mouth the night before, and more than likely be on clear liquids the day before surgery.