Bowel surgery

Bowel cancer, also referred to as colorectal cancer, is the fourth most common cancer in the UK. According to Bowel Research UK, there are over 42,000 new bowel cancer cases in the UK every year. Surgery remains the main treatment option, sometimes combined with chemotherapy and radiotherapy when required.

 

There are a number of treatment options for bowel cancer, the type of treatment recommended to you will depend on your individual diagnosis, including the stage of bowel cancer you have been diagnosed with.

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At the Rapid Access Bowel Clinic your treatment and care will be led by Mr Mo Saeed, a highly experienced consultant surgeron supported by a whole team of cancer and healthcare experts. Our goal is to find the most effective treatment for you. We will do this by working with you to understand your individual medical and personal needs and aligning your treatment and support into a personalised care plan.

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In many cases surgery remains the main treatment option, often combined with chemotherapy and radiotherapy when required. With significant advancements in the types of surgery over the years, from open, to laparoscopic (key hole) and robotic, we now have a greater range of treatment techniques than ever before. 

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Working closely with Mr Saeed, you will receive the dedicated support of a named Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS). CNSs are senior nurses who specialise in specific types of cancer, their role is to coordinate your care with the wider clinical team, providing medical, practical, and emotional support throughout your treatment, care and recovery.

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Consultant-led care and a whole-team approach

At the Rapid Access Bowel Clinic, we work together as a multidisciplinary team to create a personalised treatment plan for you as an individual, and this includes recommending the most effective surgical option, as well as other treatment and care.

 

Colorectal diseases can cause a great amount of discomfort, and although medications can help, sometimes surgery is necessary to improve these painful conditions. Types of colorectal surgery and the amount of time you will spend in hospital vary greatly from person to person. Mr Saeed will be on hand to discuss your tailored treatment plan with you.

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Recovery and aftercare

 

In hospital:

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• You will have an intravenous drip for fluids, typically removed within 24 hours

• A catheter (to drain the bladder) is usually in place for 48-72 hours

• An abdominal drain may be used and is typically removed within a few days if necessary

• Pain relief is provided, often via an epidural, which may continue for at least a day after surgery

• You will be encouraged to eat and drink as soon as you feel able, usually on the same day

• Early mobilisation is encouraged to aid recovery

• The colorectal nurse specialist will visit to help you learn how to empty and change your ileostomy bag before discharge

• Hospital stay typically lasts 5-7 days for keyhole surgery and 7-10 days for open surgery, though this may vary

 

 

At home:

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• You should remain mobile but avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for about six weeks

• Most patients can resume driving after two weeks, though recovery time may be longer after open surgery

• A follow-up consultation is scheduled approximately two weeks after discharge, though earlier appointments can be arranged if needed

• The consultant and colorectal nurse specialist will continue to provide support after discharge. A patient information leaflet on stoma care is available for further guidance

 

Why choose the Rapid Access Bowel Clinic?

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• Expert consultant-led colorectal surgical care with a focus on patient-centred treatment

• Specialists in innovative, minimally invasive keyhole procedures for faster recovery and reduced discomfort

• Fast access to leading bowel cancer experts - personalised bowel cancer treatment without delay

• Dedicated consultant-led service - comprehensive, personalable care

• JAG accredited Endoscopy

• Trusted multi-disciplinary team (MDT) bringing together NHS trained, Manchester-based surgeons, with a wealth of knowledge and experience

• The most advanced treatment techniques and technology

• Easy access to book an appointment - no waiting lists