da Vinci Surgery
 

Rectal Cancer

Rectum

Rectal cancer is the development of cancerous cells in the lining of the rectum (the last several inches of the large intestine closest to the anus). The stage (extent) of the cancer depends to a great degree on how deep the cancer goes into and beyond the wall of the rectum. Most rectal cancers are called adenocarcinomas.

Because the majority of rectal cancers begin as precancerous polyps, rectal cancer is a potentially preventable disease. Screening and early detection can catch rectal cancer at an early stage or before polyps turn into cancer.1

Cancer of the rectum is rare in developing countries, but is the second most frequent cancer in affluent societies. Worldwide, there are more than 940,000 cases (colorectal) and nearly 500,000 deaths each year.2 Colonoscopy is the most reliable means for early detection. Improved diagnosis and treatment have resulted in a five-year survival rate of 50 percent.2

While clinical studies support the effectiveness of the da Vinci Surgical System when used in minimally invasive surgery, individual results may vary. There are no guarantees of outcome. All surgeries involve the risk of major complications. Before you decide on surgery, discuss treatment options with your doctor. Understanding the risks of each treatment can help you make the best decision for your individual situation. Surgery with the da Vinci Surgical System may not be appropriate for every individual; it may not be applicable to your condition. Always ask your doctor about all treatment options, as well as their risks and benefits. Only your doctor can determine whether da Vinci Surgery is appropriate for your situation. The clinical information and opinions, including any inaccuracies expressed in this material by patients or doctors about da Vinci Surgery, are not necessarily those of Intuitive Surgical, Inc. and should not be considered as substitute for medical advice provided by your doctor. © 2010 Intuitive Surgical. All rights reserved.

  1. What You Need To Know About Cancer of the Colon and Rectum; National Cancer Institute. Available from: http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/wyntk/colon-and-rectal
  2. Global cancer rates could increase by 50% to 15 million by 2020; World Health Organization. Available from: http://www.who.int/mediacentre/news/releases/2003/pr27/en/

PN 873870 Rev A 05/10