Hi all,
I am scheduled for a laparoscopic LAR next week. I've read many posts here, which have been such a wonderful help and valuable source of information.
My tumor is at the rectosigmoid junction, 15cm from the anal verge. My surgeon says its a judgment call as to whether to treat it as a rectal cancer or a colon cancer but he's going with colon and will proceed with LAR. He thinks the risks of LARS is low, especially because my resection will be "higher up." Does this make sense?
Pathology from the colonoscopy came back non-malignant (tubulovillous adenoma) but both the board-certified GI who did the colonoscopy and this board certified colorectal surgeon say that the top of the mass looks malignant. LAR would occur regardless because of the size and shape of the mass (sessile). Two other tubular adenomas were removed during the colonoscopy.
I would appreciate any guidance or tips on what to expect for the LAR and recovery time period. I am told that there is a strong likelihood that I will need chemo after surgery, but they won't know for certain until after surgery. It's been an overwhelming two weeks of doctors and second opinions. I feel very encouraged with the team at the University of Pennsylvania but still quite anxious about everything and all the unknowns.
Thank you!