Surgery is one of best tools in the fight against colon cancer, but that doesn't mean that everyone should undergo surgery. If you are referred to a surgeon for your colon cancer, expect a conversation about the unique balance of risks and benefits that surgery would mean for you. It can be overwhelming to talk through the process, but don't be afraid to ask your surgeon any questions you might haveremember, they do this everyday. One of the most important things to ask about at the beginning is what the recovery will be like, because this is different for everyone.
Generally, surgery is recommended for anyone with stage one, two or three colon cancerthough stage two and three may require both surgery and chemotherapy. Even if surgery is successful at removing your cancer, there are always risks to surgery. If you hear the term "complications," that can mean anything from an infection that is treated with antibiotics to a problem with the surgery itself that requires another operation.
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