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Colon cancer

Colorectal
What foods are good for colon health?

Keeping your colon in shape is crucial, for your health. The colon, also known as the intestine plays a role in digesting food absorbing essential nutrients and getting rid of waste. A functioning colon can help prevent digestive issues, including colon cancer, which ranks as the third most common cancer affecting both men and women in the United States.

While major risk factors include age, and previous colon illnesses, the leading risk factors for people of all ages are obesity and poor diet which is also linked to the rise of colon cancer in young people. In this article, we’ll delve into the foods that promote colon health, how fiber prevents colon cancer and which foods to steer clear of if you have polyps.

The Significance of Diet in Preventing Colon Cancer

A rounded diet packed with fiber, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals can greatly impact the health of your colon. Research indicates that what you eat plays a role in warding off cancer and other digestive problems. Incorporating colon-healthy foods into your diet can help maintain a healthy digestive system and reduce the risk of developing polyps and colon cancer.

Best Foods for Colon Health

1. High-Fiber Foods

Fiber is essential for maintaining a healthy colon. It helps keep the digestive system running smoothly by promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. 

Numerous studies have shown a link between high-fiber diets and a reduced risk of colon cancer. Fiber helps move waste through the digestive tract more efficiently, reducing the time that potential carcinogens are in contact with the colon lining. A high-fiber diet can also help maintain a healthy weight, which is important because obesity is a risk factor for colon cancer.

Aim to consume at least 25-30 grams of fiber per day from a variety of sources.

  • Fruits and Vegetables: Apples, pears, berries, broccoli, carrots, and leafy greens are excellent sources of fiber.
  • Whole Grains: Brown rice, whole wheat bread, oatmeal, quinoa, and barley provide substantial fiber.
  • Legumes: Beans, lentils, chickpeas, and peas are fiber-rich and can be easily incorporated into various meals.
  • Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and sunflower seeds are also good sources of fiber.

If you’re still struggling with fiber intake, include up to 30 grams of fiber supplement like Benefiber or Metamucil to your daily routine.

2. Probiotic-Rich Foods

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that promote a healthy gut microbiome, which is essential for colon health. Probiotic-rich foods can help maintain a balance of good bacteria in the digestive system, improving digestion and reducing inflammation.

  • Yogurt: Choose plain, unsweetened yogurt with live and active cultures.
  • Kefir: A fermented milk drink that is rich in probiotics.
  • Sauerkraut: Fermented cabbage that is a good source of probiotics.
  • Kimchi: A spicy fermented vegetable dish that contains probiotics.
  • Miso: A fermented soybean paste used in soups and sauces.

3. Antioxidant-Rich Foods

Antioxidants help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals and can reduce inflammation in the colon. Foods rich in antioxidants can contribute to overall colon health.

  • Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries are high in antioxidants.
  • Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with antioxidants.
  • Nuts and Seeds: Walnuts, almonds, and sunflower seeds contain antioxidants.
  • Green Tea: Contains catechins, a type of antioxidant that can benefit colon health.

What Foods to Avoid If You Have Polyps

Certain foods can increase the risk of developing colon polyps and should be limited or avoided, especially if you have a history of polyps.

  • Red and Processed Meats: Studies have linked the consumption of red and processed meats to an increased risk of colon polyps and cancer. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), just eating one hot dog (50 grams) of processed meat increases your chance of colon cancer by up to 18%. The Surgery Group of LA recommends consistently replacing your sausage and steaks with turkey, fish, and chicken, and if you must have that steak limit it to 18oz per week.
  • Refined Grains: White bread, white rice, and pastries lack fiber and can contribute to digestive issues.
  • Sugary Foods and Beverages: While sugar intake itself has no reported connection with colon cancer, there are numerous studies outlining excess added sugar with obesity and weight gain which are risk factors for colon cancer. If you struggle to cut out sugary foods, consider alternatives that use diet or natural sweeteners.
  • Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption is associated with a higher risk of colorectal cancer.

Summary

A healthy diet plays a crucial role in maintaining colon health and preventing diseases like colon cancer. Incorporating high-fiber foods, probiotics, and antioxidants can promote a healthy digestive system and reduce the risk of colon polyps and cancer. Avoiding red and processed meats, refined grains, and sugary foods can further protect colon health. By making mindful dietary choices, you can support your colon health and overall well-being.

While keeping active and maintaining a healthy diet is crucial to colon health, colon screenings are imperative to detecting and removing polyps or colorectal growths before they develop into cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends adults over 45 get regular colorectal screenings. If you need a colonoscopy or other colorectal screening done, call us at 310-861-7493 to schedule a consultation with one of our colorectal surgeons.

June 30, 2024

Women holding a model of the colon
Colorectal
Symptoms of Colon cancer in women

Colon cancer is a serious health concern, affecting both men and women alike. However, women may experience unique symptoms that differ from those seen in men. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the symptoms of colon cancer in women, including common signs, early warning signs, and the importance of early detection.

Understanding Colon Cancer Symptoms

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is characterized by the abnormal growth of cells in the colon or rectum. Symptoms may vary depending on the location and stage of the cancer. Common signs of colon cancer include:

  • Changes in Bowel Habits: Persistent changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool, may indicate a potential issue with the colon.
  • Blood in the Stool: Rectal bleeding or the presence of blood in the stool (either bright red or dark in color) can be a warning sign of colon cancer.
  • Abdominal Discomfort: Cramping, bloating, abdominal pain, or discomfort may occur, particularly if the cancer has grown large enough to block the colon or cause obstruction.
  • Unexplained Weight Loss: Significant and unexplained weight loss without changes in diet or exercise habits may be a symptom of advanced colon cancer.
  • Fatigue and Weakness: General feelings of fatigue, weakness, or lethargy that persist despite adequate rest and nutrition may also indicate underlying health issues, including colon cancer.

What are the Signs of Colon Cancer in Women?

While the symptoms of colon cancer can affect both men and women, women may also experience additional signs that are specific to their gender. These may include:

  • Pelvic pain or discomfort: Some women with colon cancer may experience pelvic pain or pressure, which can be mistaken for menstrual cramps or other gynecological issues. Whilst abdominal pain is not a common symptom of colon cancer, persistent pain that feels different to what you have experienced in the past should be investigated. 
  • Anemia: Chronic blood loss from the colon can lead to iron deficiency anemia, characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and pale skin. Women may be more susceptible to anemia due to menstrual blood loss.
  • Changes in menstrual cycle: Colon cancer can sometimes disrupt hormonal balance, leading to disruptions in the menstrual cycle such as irregular bleeding or spotting between periods.

Importance of Early Detection

Statistics show that early detection and treatment of colon cancer can significantly improve survival rates. According to the American Cancer Society, when colon cancer is diagnosed at an early stage, the five-year survival rate is over 90%. However, if the cancer has spread to distant organs, the five-year survival rate drops to around 14%. 

What age should women start screening for colon cancer?

Women should be proactive about their health and undergo regular screenings, such as colonoscopies, starting at age 45 if they are at average risk or earlier if they have risk factors such as a family history of colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease. By detecting colon cancer in its early stages, it can be more effectively treated and managed, leading to better long-term outcomes.

March 20, 2024

colon cancer text cloud
Colorectal
Understanding the Stages of Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is a significant health concern worldwide, affecting millions of individuals each year. Understanding the stages of colon cancer is crucial for early detection, timely treatment, and improved outcomes. In this article, we’ll delve into the various stages of colon cancer, from stage 0 to stage IV, and explore key aspects such as progression, staging methods, and prognosis.

What Are the Stages of Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer staging is a systematic way of classifying the extent of the disease based on factors such as tumor size, invasion into surrounding tissues, lymph node involvement, and the presence of distant metastases. The stages of colon cancer help healthcare providers determine the most appropriate treatment approach and predict patient outcomes.

Stage 0

Also known as carcinoma in situ, stage 0 colon cancer is confined to the innermost layer of the colon lining. At this early stage, cancer cells have not invaded deeper layers or spread to nearby lymph nodes or distant organs.

Stage I

In stage I colon cancer, the disease has progressed beyond the inner lining of the colon but has not spread to nearby lymph nodes or distant organs. Tumors at this stage are typically small and localized, with minimal invasion into the deeper layers of the colon wall. 

Despite the absence of lymph node involvement or distant metastases, stage I colon cancer requires prompt medical attention and treatment. Surgical removal of the tumor, often along with a segment of the colon, is the primary treatment approach for stage I colon cancer. In some cases, additional treatments such as chemotherapy or targeted therapy may be recommended based on individual factors.

Stage II

In stage II colon cancer, the disease has progressed beyond the inner lining of the colon and may have penetrated deeper layers of the colon wall. Like stage I, stage II colon cancer has not spread to nearby lymph nodes or distant organs. However, tumors in stage II may be larger and more invasive than those in stage I. 

Treatment for stage II colon cancer typically involves surgical removal of the tumor and surrounding tissue, often followed by adjuvant therapy such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The goal of treatment is to remove the cancerous tissue completely and reduce the risk of recurrence. Despite the higher risk of recurrence compared to stage I, many patients with stage II colon cancer can achieve successful outcomes with appropriate treatment and close monitoring.

Stage III 

Stage III colon cancer indicates that cancer cells have spread to nearby lymph nodes but have not metastasized to distant organs. This stage is further subdivided into subcategories (IIIa, IIIb, IIIc) based on the extent of lymph node involvement and other factors such as tumor size and depth of invasion. 

In stage IIIa, cancer cells may be present in one to three nearby lymph nodes, while in stage IIIb, cancer has spread to four or more lymph nodes. Stage IIIc indicates cancer that has spread to nearby lymph nodes and has penetrated through the outermost layers of the colon wall, increasing the risk of recurrence and the need for more aggressive treatment. The prognosis for stage III colon cancer varies depending on factors such as the number of lymph nodes involved, the location of the tumor, and the overall health of the patient.

Stage IV 

Stage IV, also known as metastatic colon cancer, is the most advanced stage, where cancer has spread to distant organs such as the liver, lungs, or other parts of the body. At this stage, the cancer is considered incurable, and the primary goal of treatment is to manage symptoms, control the spread of the disease, and improve the patient’s quality of life. 

Treatment options for stage IV colon cancer may include surgery to remove metastatic tumors, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and other palliative measures to alleviate pain and discomfort.

How are Colon Cancer Stages Determined?

Colorectal cancer staging typically involves a combination of diagnostic tests and imaging studies, including colonoscopy, biopsy, computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) scans. These tests help healthcare providers determine the stage of the disease and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

How Quickly Does Colon Cancer Progress?

The progression of colon cancer varies widely from person to person and depends on factors such as tumor biology, genetic predisposition, and overall health status. In general, colon cancer tends to develop slowly over several years, progressing through the stages over time. However, some aggressive forms of colon cancer may grow and spread more rapidly.

Prognosis and Treatment Options

The prognosis for colon cancer varies depending on the stage at diagnosis, with earlier stages generally associated with better outcomes. Treatment options for colon cancer may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. The choice of treatment depends on factors such as the stage of the disease, the location of the tumor, and the individual’s overall health.

Regular colorectal screenings, awareness of symptoms, and prompt medical evaluation are key to detecting colon cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages. If you have concerns about your risk of colon cancer or notice any symptoms, consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

March 7, 2024

Surgery Group LA
What is causing the rising rates of colon cancer in young adults?
testing tubes with different solutions

Guys, the test results are in and they’re not pretty! 50 is no longer the age when you need to check for colorectal cancer. People who are under 50 now account for 10% of colorectal cancer cases. And the worst news is that we only have ourselves to blame.

Why young people are getting colorectal cancer so young?

The truth is poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle. Couple this with smoking or drinking and young colons are going bad faster than our pandemic investment portfolio.

There are of course other factors. Age, race, and gender all play some part in your risk of developing colon cancer. 3-5% of people in developed countries have genes that put them at very high risk of Colon Cancer, caused by germline mutations in colon repair proteins (mmr).

But these mutations do not explain the recent uptick. The type of cancer that doctors are seeing in these cases grows sporadically. Genetic forms of colon cancers grow more steadily. New gene mutations could be the cause of some of these new cases. But new research shows there are more obvious risk factors to consider.

What can young people do to stay healthy?

Know your symptoms – if you or a loved one at any age develop these symptoms, it is imperative you speak to your doctor as soon as you can.

  • Rectal Bleeding – especially if your stool has rust-like blood forming inside of your stool
  • Unusual stools – dark stools, narrow thin stools, that may be a sign that your bowels are being obstructed
  • Changes in Bowel movements- this could either mean tough stools that only pass a few times a week (constipation), or loose watery stool (diarrhea) especially if this has gone on for longer than two weeks
  • Low energy or chronic exhaustion – this may be a sign of anemia or blood loss

Don’t be too alarmed! They are a variety of far less serious conditions, from hemorrhoids to a poor fiber diet to explain these symptoms. But you should still get tested, especially if there is any blood in your stool.

Make a lifestyle change – studies have shown that making these lifestyle changes can dramatically decrease your risk of developing colorectal cancer.

  • Drink in moderation – the American cancer association advises no more than two drinks for men or one drink for women, but any alcohol can increase your cancer risk
  • Quit smoking – the amount of damage smoking causes your body can fill a blog on its own, so quit as soon as you can. That includes e-cigs too!
  • Lose weight – your new year’s resolution won’t just help your pants fit better it could save your life!
  • Consume 25 grams of fiber a day – most Americans only consume 10 – 15 grams of fiber a day. This causes your body to have to strain to keep your colon clean.
  • Balanced Diet – eating a well-rounded diet consisting of foods that are beneficial for your colon can help prevent colon cancer.

The key is consistency, not intensity – no need to throw all your cigarettes in a bin or eat two pounds of Benefiber. Moderate your smoking with nicotine patches, consider adding a walk every couple of days. 

You can do a lot more good in a year doing a little than you could ever do in a week so stay consistent and be gentle with yourself when you inevitably get off track and just get back on.

If you or a loved one have questions or concerns about colorectal cancer, speak to your doctor today.

February 10, 2023

Surgery Group LA
Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Symptoms, Causes, Colors, and More

Rectal bleeding is often a troubling sign of a host of different conditions. These can range from mild, such as hemorrhoids, the moderate, like an ulcer, or severe problems, such as colorectal cancer.

This can cause a lot of confusion and distress, which is why the Surgery Group of LA has made this handy sheet to help explain what the blood in your stool may mean.

What kind of rectal bleeding do I have?

Rectal bleeding can happen at various stages of the digestive process. Where it happens dictates the color, the amount, and where inside the stool the blood will start to form. 

While there are always exceptions, if your bleeding is:

  • Bright Red Blood – usually means bleeding that’s lower in the rectum near the anus
  • Dark Red or Maroon Blood – can signal bleeding in the small bowel or high in the colon
  • Blackish or tar-like stool (Melena) – likely means bleeding in the stomach, such as bleeding caused by an ulcer

Sometimes bleeding can’t be detected by the human eye and needs to be tested under a microscope. 

Rectal Bleeding Symptoms

Depending on the type of rectal bleeding you are enduring, you may experience very different symptoms. 

However rectal bleeding usually can come with: 

  • Feeling rectal pain and pressure
  • Mental confusion
  • Feeling lightheaded or dizzy

If you’re experiencing a more serious rectal condition you may also suffer from the:

  • Fast heart rate
  • Inability to urinate
  • Slipping into unconsciousness
  • Experiencing a sudden drop in blood pressure

This may be a sign that you are going through Shock, and you should get medical treatment immediately.

What causes rectal bleeding?

As mentioned earlier the type of conditions that cause rectal bleeding range from severe to mild.

Common mild conditions include:

  • Hemorrhoids – the most common cause of rectal bleeding, this condition occurs when veins inside the anus grow inflamed and causes bleeding into your stool. 
  • Anal fissures – not to be confused with Hemmorhoids, are sudden cuts that form after passing an especially hard stool

More serious, but still treatable conditions include:

  • Diverticulosis/Diverticulitis – this happens when small pouches called Diverticuli to develop in weakened sections of your intestine, if they get infected they can cause pussy yellowish blood that causes all sorts of abdominal symptoms and fever
  • Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome – IBS or IBD as it is also called, is a swelling of the small or large intestine, which can cause intestinal blockages, diarrhea, and cramping
  • Ulcers – these form when the fluids in your intestines are constantly out of homeostasis which damages the lining of your intestines

Or unfortunately, it may be a sign of:

  • Polyps – or growths in the lower digestive system, which can develop into cancer

What to do if I have rectal bleeding?

Depending on the severity of your symptoms you may want to set up an appointment with your doctor or go to urgent care.

It’s important that regardless of the cause your doctor is given a chance to perform some tests in order to verify your condition and make sure your treatment is appropriate.

And again, If you’re experiencing a more serious rectal condition you may also suffer from:

  • Fast heart rate
  • Inability to urinate
  • Slipping into unconsciousness
  • Experiencing a sudden drop in blood pressure

This may be a sign that you are going through Shock, and you should get medical treatment immediately.

If you or a loved one have questions or concerns about rectal bleeding speak to your doctor today.

February 10, 2023

Surgery Group LA
Colon: What is it?

” …Eat more spinach son, good for your Colon! 

…My doctor says I need a colonoscopy!

…Ow! She hit me right in the colon!”

As part of the Surgeon Group of LA’s simple biology tour, we introduce our lovely friend:

The Colon!

Colon:

The largest intestine inside the digestive system, the colon connects the small intestine and the anus and is a crucial part of the entire digestive system. It’s basically where all the good stuff that you need, like water and nutrients, gets absorbed from the food you eat.

Job Description: To completely absorb the nutrients, water, and energy from the partially digested food coming from your Small Intestine

Aliases: Large Intestine, the poop chute, the 5 feet poop maker

Size: 5 feet long, can be approximately 3 inches wide or as low as 1 inch wide depending on the region

Altogether the large intestine gets the food you chew up and turns it into energy. Albeit with poop too.

Myth# 1 Poop takes 72 hours to digest

The truth is, people, vary widely on how long food stays in their colons.

Generally, though, the colon spends anywhere from 12 to 48 hours turning mashed-up food into a waste product.

Myth # 2 You should poop every day

There is simply no medical evidence that backs this up.

The truth again is that people vary widely on how many times they poo, from a few times a day to once every three. If it takes you more than 72 hours in between bowel movements, it may be time to speak to a doctor.

Myth# 3 Red blood in your stool means colon cancer

Darkened, semi-clotted blood inside of your stool may perhaps be a sign of colon cancer.

However, if the blood in your stool is red, and does not come from inside your stool, it could be a sign of:

  • hernia
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Chronic constipation
  • Ulcers

Any blood in your stool = time to see a doctor.

However, most likely after a colonoscopy, your doctor will prescribe some preparation h and a high-fiber diet. No need to panic just yet.

Myth# 4 Fiber is all I need for a good colon

The truth is, you can have all the fiber in the world, but if you:

  • Constantly overweight and obese
  • Smoke
  • Excessively drink

You will highly increase your chance of developing colon problems.

Fiber or juice cleanse be damned.

And on that point.

Myth# 5 Juice cleanses work!

This is the myth that will especially tick off your doctors.

Every once in a while juice cleanses may be a way to reduce calories and increase the number of vitamins you get from fruits and vegetables. However, nearly every study done on juice cleanses show they have no effect on colon health. You’re likely better off adding some green tea and whole fruits to your diet and calling it a day.

Conclusion

With a good diet and exercise plan, checkups, and occasionally an apple or two, your colon should stay good as new. Additionally scheduling a yearly colonoscopy is recommended for adults over 45. Especially if you have colon problems in your family.

If you or a loved one have questions about colon health, schedule an appointment with your doctor today.

January 4, 2023

Surgery Group LA
Prepping for your colonoscopy

Whether it’s checking for colon cancer, internal hemorrhoids, or just a bad case of constipation, colonoscopies are a crucial medical diagnostic tool that has alerted doctors on the status of many colon maladies. However, these procedures can be a little anxiety-inducing. Will it hurt a lot? Do I have to drink special fluids before? How long is this going to put me out? Use this article as a helpful guide for all your questions regarding your scheduled colonoscopy.

How to prep for your colonoscopy

The key to the game is simple: emptying the bowels prior to your appointment. Without this crucial step, any growths, polyps, or abnormalities may be missed. 

To help you achieve this, we’ve created this 3-day colon cleansing program for you.

3 days out Low fiber foods, no whole grains, seeds, dried fruit or vegetables. Keep food clear and to a minimum. Avoid fried foods and any bright red foods.

24 hours out: No solid foods at all. If you can handle it a fast could be helpful, but you can supplement this window with clear foods like jello, popsicles, clear juices, or black coffee. This is often when we recommend you drink a bowel cleansing liquid for the best results.

2 hours before: No food or liquid at all, not even the bowel cleansing liquid. 

How to know if my colonoscopy prep is working

While following these steps should allow you a worry-free colonoscopy, for the hypervigilant, check for these steps that your colonoscopy prep is working:

  • Bowel movements are watery and clear
  • Seek medical attention if your bowel movements have become bloody or you are suffering from chronic constipation even after drinking the bowel cleansing liquid.

The Colonoscopy itself

The good news is that once you’re ready, a colonoscopy takes less than an hour to complete and you should be at the doctors for no more than 2-3 hours including prep and recovery. 

Your doctor will often begin by administering a light sedative. This means you will need to get a ride home after your test, and you should call off work on the day of the test. The sedative and test take about an hour to wear off but you should spend the rest of the day relaxing. If your doctor has found any polyps that are worth consideration they will let you know and send them off for further testing.

4 quick tips for colonoscopy prep:

  • Read your colonoscopy prep instructions asap – you don’t want to have to reschedule cause you missed a crucial step
  • Consider nonsugar sweeteners like kool-aid or stevia to keep you from being bored of drinking water
  • Consider drinking your colonoscopy prep fluid cold, sweetened, and through a straw to make it easier to put down
  • Once the fluids and diet kick in, keep your clothes nice and loose and try to take a little time off work if you can, it might be hard to stay away from the bathroom for the time being

If you or a loved one have questions about their colon health, speak to a medical professional today to get answers.

September 16, 2022

Surgery Group LA
How to cope with a cancer diagnosis

Cancer as a word is everywhere. On your newsfeed, someone in your family or a friend perhaps. Cancer seems to be all everyone seems to be talking about, and yet for the vast majority of people who get their cancer diagnosis: it’s a huge, huge surprise.

No amount of counseling, support, or information will completely remove the shock and raw wholly. Each person who goes through a cancer journey has a right to approach it in their own way, but we here at the Surgery Group of Los Angeles humbly offer these words of support and advice from our years of experience treating cancer patients.

  1. Talk to someone, who it is up to you – A trusted friend or loved one? Of course. Random person at a bar? Go for it. Your cancer support team? You betcha. Other cancer survivors? Whatever you want. Who that person is is entirely up to you. Stay authentic or work on authenticity, there is no need to be faux cheery or need to discuss deep moody topics just because you have cancer. Talking with other cancer survivors might give you insight into what parts of the cancer journey are completely normal and perhaps bond with people that might understand more than others.
  1. Focus on the treatment options and what you can control, not statistics – There is nothing wrong with learning everything you need to know about your cancer diagnosis and treatment, we recommend it. But don’t get bogged down in the year mortality rates, or which type of cancer is worse, focus on what you can control, like making sure that your treatment plan and the team are crucial and right for your diagnosis.
  2. Advocate for yourself! – Just because your doctor might be a specialist of some pedigree in this diagnosis gives them no excuse to bully or talk down to you. If you feel like your doctor is not giving you a clear and informative picture of your treatment options, and isn’t discussing the complexity of your case with you in full, move on. You know your body better than anyone and you should fight for it.
  3. Maintain who you are – It is a fact that some things will change as your cancer journey commences. You will have times when you suddenly are unable to do things. Focus on what you can do, maintain your physical regimen, or begin a new one. Keep pursuing goals and passion, you may need to focus your energy more on what really matters but keep your life as unchanged as you can.
  4. Eat well and exercise – You and your body are about to go on a journey, make sure that it’s well maintained.

In essence focus on getting healthy and staying connected to the things and people that you love and trust. It’s good advice for anyone, but in a sea of misinformation and shocking articles, please consider this a healthy reminder that this is your journey, it is unique and will have its own complexities, and you don’t have to listen to anyone but knowledge and yourself. 

If you or a loved one is processing a cancer diagnosis and would like to speak with someone who can help contact a medical professional today.

September 16, 2022

Surgery Group LA
Is Robotic Surgery actually performed by my surgeon? 5 misconceptions about Robotic Surgery

Based on your point of view, this image above can seem fascinating or disturbing. Dr. Yosef is a surgeon and former member of the Cedar Sinais robotic steering committee, and he understands your concerns. A robot performing surgery? Then what is my surgeon doing? Watching videos on their phone?

Not exactly, Dr. Yosef says. Robotic surgery implies automation. A robotic “surgery assistant” might be a better name, a way to describe the many amazing ways robotics have assisted surgeons with their operations, but not simply doing the surgery for the surgeon. 

Surgical robotic systems are comprised of miniature cameras and mechanical arms with surgical instruments. The Surgeon controls these arms and uses the cameras for feedback and information, usually while seated at a nearby computer.

Why do things this way? In short, it allows Surgeons to perform more complex, less invasive, surgery for longer periods of time. Mechanical arms mean smaller incisions needed for surgery. Miniature cameras allow surgeons to see areas invisible to the naked eye. The design of the robotics has been perfected for years to make sure the surgeon can stay alert and focused for longer. 

Smaller incisions and more focused surgeons mean shorter recovery times, less chance of complications, and shorter hospital stays.

Some people however still may have very valid concerns. Does robotic surgery mean that I’m getting less surgeon attention and care? Is this all a clever ruse for my surgeons to get lazy with their practices and still charge exorbitant fees?

Doctors like Dr. Yosef understand people’s fears and encourages those who have them to see for themselves. “Come see for yourself,” Dr. Yosef says, “ You’ll see that no robot is performing a surgery automatically.” Instead, robotic surgery aides are like cutting-edge formula one cars, allowing surgeons to perform the most advanced and groundbreaking techniques their field has to offer. 

And like those f1 drivers, Dr. Yosef and others like him have been training for years so that these new technologies are like an extension of themselves, as comfortable and in tune with them as their own hands might be.

Have questions about robotic surgery and want to talk about it? Speak to a medical professional today about how robotic surgery may be a treatment option for you.

July 26, 2022

Surgery Group LA
Warning Signs of Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month is this March, and it is crucial that more people are aware of this insidious disease that is now the third most common cancer in the United States. Colorectal cancer is often asymptomatic, and doctors recommend regular screenings starting at the 45 to everyone. However, if you or a loved one is suffering from one of these warning signs, you may need to speak with a medical professional today.

Continuous Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and consistent bouts of vomiting may be a sign that a rectal or colon tumor is creating a blockage in the bowels. This leads to the digestive system being unable to pass waste or gas properly. If you experience persistent nausea, vomiting, or dehydration for longer than 24 hours, speak to a medical professional immediately.

Rectal Bleeding

While rectal bleeding can be a sign of other conditions such as polyps, or, hemorrhoids, doctors recommend a checkup anyway. While it could just be a minor illness, rectal bleeding of any sort is worthy of more investigation, especially if it doesn’t go away.

Changes in bowel movements

Unusual stools or change in bowel movements, even if occurs in your twenties or thirties should be looked into. Concerning symptoms include pencil-thin stools, or bloody stools, feeling early in a meal for extended periods of time. While these symptoms may have other less serious explanations, it still is a good idea to consult a medical professional as soon as you can.

If you or a loved one suffer from any of the symptoms, it may be time to speak to a medical professional about your colon health.

March 23, 2022

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Surgery Group LA is a team of professional and board-licensed surgeons, who specialize of their respective fields. The institution’s project to offer sufferers with advanced and complete surgical care.

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