The colon is one of the most vulnerable organs in the human body. As an integral part of the large intestine, the colon is tasked with the reabsorption of fluids and the preparation of waste products for elimination. This is an important function, and sickness and even death can occur when it is interrupted by gastrointestinal (GI) diseases. Colon cancer is the third most common type of cancer in the United States, and more than 100,000 new cases are expected to be diagnosed this year alone.
Colon cancer isn’t the only disease that afflicts this vital organ, inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, as well as diverticulitis and bowel blockages can also lead to health complications. If you are experiencing symptoms like diarrhea, constipation, rectal bleeding, abdominal discomfort, bowel fullness, fatigue, or weight loss, you should consult Whalen Clark, M.D., the best colon and rectal surgeon in Tampa, to obtain an accurate diagnosis and learn about your treatment options.
Recover Quickly After Colon and Rectal Surgery in Tampa
Generally, it takes anywhere from weeks to months to recover after a colectomy is performed. During a colectomy, the diseased section of the colon is removed and the two healthy parts of the intestine are attached. Your surgeon’s capabilities will determine which type of colectomy procedure is used to treat you. There are two main types of surgery — open (or traditional) and minimally invasive.
Open surgery requires the surgeon to make a single large incision in the abdomen. This incision allows the surgeon to view the colon directly and perform the procedure accordingly. Unfortunately, this type of surgery increases patient discomfort and requires a longer recovery time.
On the other hand, minimally invasive surgery benefits from reduced recovery periods and a decreased chance of complications and side effects. Dr. Clark can perform robotic-assisted, minimally invasive surgeries with the da Vinci® surgical system to provide patients with a less daunting procedure to address various diseases of the colon. He can also utilize Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) programs to decrease recovery times by up to 40 percent.
Working Together to Improve Your Health
When you undergo colon and rectal surgery in Tampa with Dr. Clark at the helm, your treatment starts before surgery commences. Dr. Clark is motivated to help patient’s resume their normal lives as quickly as possible. To achieve this goal, he works closely with nurses and other relevant medical professionals to ensure that you’re receiving the care you deserve before, during, and after your procedure. To improve the outcome of the surgery, Dr. Clark will ensure that you are following a specific diet plan, taking the correct preoperative medications, being treated with the proper surgical anesthesia protocols, receiving postoperative nutrition and medications, and walking independently soon after surgery is completed.
With a comprehensive approach to patient care aimed at reducing the likelihood of postoperative complications and improving cardiopulmonary function after colon surgery, it’s no wonder why Dr. Clark is viewed as the best colon and rectal surgeon in Tampa.
To schedule a consultation with Whalen Clark, M.D., the best colon and rectal surgeon in Tampa, please contact us today.
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