Medical Director
Senior Consultant, General & Colorectal Surgeon
MBBS (Singapore), MRCS (Edinburgh), MMed (Surgery), FRCS (Edinburgh)
Laparoscopic colorectal surgery, also known as a keyhole or minimally invasive colorectal surgery, is an advanced and specialised technique that results in less post-operative pain, faster recovery, and reduced scarring in eligible patients.
Today, the laparoscopic approach can be used to treat both benign (non-cancerous) and cancerous colorectal conditions.
It is used and proven for cases of colon and rectal cancers, including selectively in those with locally advanced tumours or stage IV cancers. It has also been utilised in many benign conditions including diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease(Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis), polyps, or concurrent gynaecological conditions such as endometriosis involving the intestines.
What are the Types of Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery?
Laparoscopic surgery for colorectal diseases has been proven to be the gold standard in many countries. For cancer conditions, laparoscopic surgery has strong scientific evidence that there are equivalent, if not superior long term survival outcomes.
Colectomy (Right hemicolectomy/Left hemicolectomy/Subtotal colectomy/Total colectomy/Panproctocolectomy): To remove the colon partially or completely in order to treat conditions like colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease, or genetic conditions such as Familial Adenomatous Polyposis.
Anterior Resection (High/Low/Ultra-low): To remove part of the rectum; commonly for rectal cancer treatment.
Abdominoperineal Resection: To remove the rectum and anus; commonly used to treat advanced rectal cancers involving the anal canal. This surgery will require a permanent stoma thereafter.
Rectopexy: To correct a rectal prolapse through repositioning and securing the rectum, so that it does not protrude.
How is it Done?
The surgeon will make a few small incisions on the patient’s abdomen
Hollow tubes, known as trocars, will be inserted into these incisions to create access points for the surgical tools and laparoscope (a flexible, long and thin tube that is fitted with a video camera and light)
Carbon dioxide gas will be pumped into the abdomen in order to expand the abdominal space, allowing for better visualisation and access
Specialised surgical tools will be inserted through the trocars to perform the procedure; whether it be a tumour removal, tissue resection, and so on.
The surgeon will continuously monitor the procedure on a monitor, thanks to the laparoscope’s camera projecting real-time images to guide the surgeon’s movements
Once the procedure is complete, the surgeon will close the incisions; and the patient will be monitored in the recovery area until they are deemed fit for discharge
In the hands of a skilled surgeon, laparoscopic colorectal surgery offers precision and faster healing.
Schedule an appointment with Dr Chew today to explore your treatment options.
Who is Eligible for the Laparoscopic Approach?
While many colorectal surgeries can be performed laparoscopically today, they may not be suitable for everyone. In some complex cases or emergencies, the open technique may be required. Nonetheless, most conditions are eligible for laparoscopic surgery. This will be based on an assessment of the disease condition, suitability of the patient for laparoscopic surgery and other factors.
History of Extensive/Multiple Abdominal Surgeries: This means that there will be extensive scar tissue in the patient’s abdomen, which can prohibit placement of laparoscopic instruments.
Emergencies: In certain acute colorectal conditions such as intestine perforation or severe intestinal obstruction, laparoscopic surgery is not suitable and will not be attempted)
Preparation for Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery
1. Pre-habilitation
2. Bowel Preparation
3. Oral Antibiotics
4. Admission and Administrative Processes
Our Colorectal Surgeon
Dr Chew Min Hoe
Medical Director
Senior Consultant, General & Colorectal Surgeon
MBBS (Singapore), MRCS (Edinburgh), MMed (Surgery), FRCS (Edinburgh)
Dr Chew Min Hoe brings over 20 years of experience in both public healthcare and private practice to his work as a colorectal surgeon. He is skilled in minimally invasive colorectal and perianal surgery, as well as advanced treatments for colorectal cancer and pelvic tumours.
Dr Chew is a leader in his field, having served as President of the Society of Colorectal Surgeons, Singapore and founding Head of the Department of Surgery at Sengkang General Hospital (SKH). He has made many contributions to research and education, having authored over 100 peer-reviewed publications and presented at numerous international conferences.
Our Motto
Caring Hearts, Educated Minds, Skilled Hands
Orchard
3 Mount Elizabeth #16-09, Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre,Singapore 228510
Tel:+65 6518 4688
Fax:+65 6235 0897
Mon-Fri:8:30am - 5:30pm
Sat / PH Eve:8:30am - 12:00 noon
Sun & Public Holiday: Closed
Farrer Park
1 Farrer Park Station Road Connexion,#08-07 Farrer Park Medical Centre,Singapore 217562
Tel:+65 6518 4868
Fax:+65 6443 6616
Mon-Fri:8:30am - 5:30pm
Sat / PH Eve:8:30am - 12:00 noon
Sun & Public Holiday: Closed
