Rectal cancer is a serious diagnosis that requires expert care and precision. Dr. Albert Chung, a highly trained colorectal surgeon in Santa Ana, CA, specializes in advanced rectal cancer surgery, including minimally invasive and robotic-assisted procedures. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with rectal cancer, call (714) 988-8690 to schedule a consultation and explore your treatment options.
The rectum, located at the end of the large intestine, stores waste before it exits the body. When abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in this area, they can form cancerous tumors that, if left untreated, may spread to nearby organs, lymph nodes, or beyond. More than 44,000 new cases of rectal cancer are diagnosed each year in the United States, making early detection and treatment essential.
Dr. Chung will conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include:
Early detection significantly improves treatment success and survival rates.
For many patients, surgery is the primary treatment for rectal cancer. A low anterior resection (LAR) involves removing the cancerous portion of the rectum while preserving bowel function. In cases where cancer is located lower in the rectum, a proctectomy with anastomosis may be performed, reconnecting healthy sections of the digestive tract.
Dr. Chung may recommend a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or immunotherapy depending on the stage and severity of the cancer.
Traditional open surgery requires a single large incision in the abdomen to access and remove the affected portion of the rectum. While effective, this method often involves longer recovery times and higher risks compared to minimally invasive techniques.
Laparoscopic and robotic-assisted procedures allow for smaller incisions, reduced postoperative pain, and faster recovery. These techniques utilize advanced surgical instruments and high-definition imaging for greater precision.
Dr. Chung specializes in robotic-assisted rectal cancer surgery using the da Vinci surgical system. This cutting-edge technology enhances surgical accuracy and provides:
The Firefly® fluorescence imaging feature further improves surgical outcomes by illuminating blood flow in the rectal tissues, offering visualization beyond the human eye.
Compared to traditional methods, robotic-assisted rectal cancer surgery may provide:
While robotic-assisted surgery offers many advantages, not every patient is a candidate. Dr. Chung will assess your specific condition and determine the best treatment approach tailored to your needs.
We are here to hear you as you heal. Feel free to reach out to us.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment greatly improve colorectal cancer outcomes. Call Dr. Albert Chung’s colorectal clinic in Orange County.