My Reports
RGCIRC, Niti Bagh
Best Colorectal (Colon) Cancer Surgeon
A colon cancer diagnosis raises many questions, and one of the most important is who should be leading your treatment. While the surgery remains a cornerstone of colon cancer management, achieving the best possible treatment outcome depends on far more than simply removing the tumour. Factors such as complete cancer removal with appropriate lymph node clearance, preservation of bowel function where feasible, and the use of minimally invasive techniques when suitable all require specialised surgical expertise and careful multidisciplinary planning. For this reason, choosing a surgeon with dedicated training and experience in colorectal oncology is one of the most important decisions a patient can make.
At Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre (RGCIRC), colon cancer surgery is performed by dedicated GI Oncosurgeons within the Department of GI Oncosurgery and Liver Transplant. Every case is reviewed by a weekly Multidisciplinary Tumour Board before treatment begins, ensuring that surgical decisions are made within the context of a comprehensive, evidence-based, and personalised treatment plan. The team has extensive experience in performing open, laparoscopic, and robotic colorectal cancer surgeries, with treatment tailored to the location, stage, and complexity of the disease.
What Does a Colon Cancer Surgeon Do?
A colon cancer surgeon, also known as a GI surgical oncologist, is a specialist trained in the surgical treatment of cancers affecting the colon and rectum. Unlike a general surgeon, who performs a wide range of surgical procedures, a GI surgical oncologist focuses specifically on cancers of the digestive system. They are also different from gastroenterologists, who diagnose and treat digestive disorders using procedures such as colonoscopy and medications rather than surgery.
The colon cancer surgeon’s role spans several stages of the patient journey. In the diagnostic phase, they evaluate clinical findings, review imaging and endoscopy results, and assess whether surgical intervention is appropriate and how it should be planned. In treatment planning, they contribute to the Multidisciplinary Tumour Board alongside medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and other specialists to determine the optimal sequence and combination of treatments. During surgery, they perform tumour resection with the goal of achieving complete cancer removal with clear surgical margins and appropriate lymph node dissection. During follow-up, they monitor surgical recovery, manage postoperative concerns, and coordinate with the broader oncology team for long-term surveillance.
For patients with locally advanced or metastatic colorectal cancer, the surgeon’s role extends further. This may include assessing the resectability of liver metastases, planning multivisceral resections when adjacent organs are involved, and evaluating suitability for specialised procedures such as HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy) in selected patients with peritoneal surface malignancies.
The Colon Cancer Care Team at RGCIRC
Colon cancer at RGCIRC is managed by a multidisciplinary team comprising GI surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, gastroenterologists, interventional radiologists, hepatobiliary specialists, nuclear medicine physicians, GI pathologists, and stoma care specialists. This team meets weekly through the GI and HPB (Hepatopancreatobiliary) Tumour Board to review each case collectively before treatment decisions are finalised.
The role of each specialist is outlined below.
GI Surgical Oncologist
The GI surgical oncologist leads the operative management of colon cancer, performing the full range of surgical procedures from endoscopic resection for early-stage disease to complex multivisceral resections for locally advanced tumours. At RGCIRC, GI Oncosurgeons focus exclusively on the surgical management of gastrointestinal and hepatopancreatobiliary cancers.
Medical Oncologist
The medical oncologist manages systemic treatment, including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, before surgery (neoadjuvant), after surgery (adjuvant), and as the primary treatment for metastatic disease. They also coordinate molecular and biomarker testing, where appropriate, to guide treatment selection.
Radiation Oncologist
Radiation therapy is not a standard component of colon cancer treatment, but it plays an important role in rectal cancer and selected locally advanced cases. The radiation oncologist contributes to tumour board discussions and manages radiation treatment where indicated.
Gastroenterologist and Interventional Gastroenterologist
The gastroenterologist performs diagnostic colonoscopy, endoscopic biopsy, and endoscopic resection for selected early colorectal cancers. The interventional gastroenterologist performs advanced endoscopic procedures that support diagnosis, staging, symptom management, and treatment planning.
GI Pathologist
Accurate histopathological analysis of biopsy and surgical specimens, including assessment of tumour type, resection margins, lymph node involvement, tumour grade, and relevant molecular markers, is provided by a GI pathologist with specialist expertise in colorectal pathology.
Stoma Care Specialist
For patients who require a temporary or permanent stoma as part of their surgery, the stoma care specialist provides pre-operative counselling, stoma site marking, and post-operative education and support, helping patients adapt to life after surgery and maintain their quality of life.
Surgical Procedures for Colon Cancer at RGCIRC
The choice of surgery depends on factors such as the tumour’s location, stage, extent of spread, and the patient’s overall health. Some early-stage cancers can be treated through advanced endoscopic techniques, while more advanced tumours may require bowel resection or specialised procedures involving nearby organs or metastatic disease. The surgical procedures available at RGCIRC include:
Polypectomy and Endoscopic Resection
For very early cancers confined to a polyp or the innermost lining of the colon, endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) or endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) may allow the lesion to be removed through a colonoscope without any external incision. These techniques are suitable only for carefully selected early-stage tumours that meet specific clinical and pathological criteria.
Colectomy
Colectomy, the removal of the segment of colon containing the tumour along with a margin of normal bowel and regional lymph nodes, is the standard surgical treatment for localised colon cancer. Depending on the tumour’s location, this may involve a right hemicolectomy, left hemicolectomy, sigmoid colectomy, or subtotal colectomy. Both open and minimally invasive approaches are available at RGCIRC.
Laparoscopic and Robotic Colorectal Resection
RGCIRC offers laparoscopic and robotic surgery for appropriately selected patients with colorectal cancer. Minimally invasive colorectal surgery is associated with smaller incisions, less post-operative pain, reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery compared to open surgery, while maintaining established oncological principles. Robotic surgery provides enhanced visualisation, instrument dexterity, and precision, which may be particularly beneficial in technically challenging pelvic procedures.
Multivisceral Resection
When a colon tumour extends into adjacent organs such as the small bowel, bladder, uterus, or abdominal wall, en bloc removal of the tumour together with the involved structures may be required to achieve complete tumour removal with clear surgical margins. These complex procedures require specialised surgical expertise and multidisciplinary planning.
Surgery for Liver Metastases
The liver is the most common site of distant spread in colon cancer. For selected patients with resectable liver metastases, liver-directed surgery can provide long-term disease control and may offer the possibility of cure. RGCIRC performs liver resections for colorectal liver metastases as part of a coordinated treatment strategy that may also include systemic therapy. In selected cases, ablative techniques such as radiofrequency ablation or microwave ablation may be considered for lesions that are not suitable for surgical resection.
HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy)
For carefully selected patients with peritoneal metastases from colorectal cancer, cytoreductive surgery combined with HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy) may be considered. The procedure involves surgical removal of visible tumour deposits within the abdominal cavity, followed by the administration of heated chemotherapy directly into the abdomen during surgery to target residual microscopic disease. This specialised treatment is offered as part of a comprehensive approach to selected cases of advanced colorectal cancer.
When Should You Consult a Colon Cancer Surgeon?
You should consult a colon cancer surgeon if you experience symptoms that may require further evaluation, have risk factors for colorectal cancer, or have already been diagnosed and are considering treatment options.
Situations where surgical assessment may be recommended include:
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool. Any unexplained rectal bleeding should be medically evaluated, even if haemorrhoids have previously been diagnosed.
- A persistent change in bowel habits lasting more than two to three weeks, including new-onset constipation, diarrhoea, or alternating episodes of both.
- Unexplained weight loss, particularly when accompanied by gastrointestinal symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, or loss of appetite.
- Persistent abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, or discomfort that is new, worsening, or not explained by a known digestive condition.
- A confirmed colon polyp that is not suitable for endoscopic removal, or a biopsy result showing cancerous or suspicious cells.
- Iron deficiency anaemia without an obvious cause, especially in adults over 50 years of age, as this may be an early sign of colorectal cancer.
- A family history of colorectal cancer or hereditary cancer syndromes such as Lynch syndrome or Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP), which may require specialist surveillance and genetic counselling.
- A diagnosis of colon cancer at another hospital when seeking a second opinion regarding surgical treatment options or overall treatment planning.
- Abnormal findings on screening tests, including stool-based screening tests or imaging studies, that require further specialist evaluation.
Why Choose RGCIRC for Colon Cancer Surgery?
Choosing the right cancer centre is an important part of colon cancer treatment. At RGCIRC, patients benefit from specialist surgical expertise, multidisciplinary treatment planning, advanced treatment technologies, and comprehensive support services that span every stage of care. Here’s what makes RGCIRC a leading centre for colon cancer surgery and colorectal cancer care in India:
Dedicated GI Surgical Oncology Expertise and Advanced Minimally Invasive Surgery
At RGCIRC, colon cancer surgery is performed by dedicated GI Oncosurgeons whose practice focuses on gastrointestinal and hepatopancreatobiliary cancers. The team has extensive experience in open, laparoscopic, and robotic colorectal cancer surgery, enabling treatment to be tailored to the location, stage, and complexity of each tumour. For eligible patients, minimally invasive approaches may offer benefits such as smaller incisions, reduced post-operative pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery while maintaining established oncological principles.
Weekly GI and HPB Multidisciplinary Tumour Board
All complex cases are reviewed through the weekly GI and HPB (Hepatopancreatobiliary) Multidisciplinary Tumour Board. Surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and other specialists collaborate to determine the most appropriate treatment strategy for each patient. This ensures that surgical decisions are integrated with systemic therapy, radiation therapy, and long-term surveillance planning.
Comprehensive Care for Advanced and Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
RGCIRC provides comprehensive care for patients with advanced colorectal cancer involving the liver, lungs, or peritoneum. Treatment options may include neoadjuvant chemotherapy, liver-directed surgery, pulmonary metastasectomy, ablative procedures, cytoreductive surgery, and HIPEC for selected patients with peritoneal metastases. This multidisciplinary capability allows complex cases to be managed within a single coordinated programme.
Molecular Testing and Precision Oncology
Advanced molecular diagnostics play an important role in the management of colorectal cancer. RGCIRC offers molecular and biomarker testing, including RAS, BRAF, MSI, HER2, and other clinically relevant markers where indicated. These results help guide treatment decisions and identify patients who may benefit from targeted therapies or immunotherapy.
Accreditation and Recognised Excellence
RGCIRC holds NABH accreditation (5th Edition) and NABL accreditation for laboratory and diagnostic services. The institute has also received national and international recognition for its contribution to cancer care, reflecting its commitment to quality, patient safety, and clinical excellence.
Commitment to Accessible Cancer Care
As a not-for-profit institution, RGCIRC is committed to making specialised cancer treatment more accessible. Through its Philanthropy Department, eligible patients may receive financial assistance and support programmes that help reduce the burden of cancer treatment and improve access to quality care.
At RGCIRC, staging and treatment decisions are made through multidisciplinary tumour board discussions. This ensures that each patient receives an individualised treatment plan aligned with international guidelines and focused on achieving the best possible outcomes.
Book a Consultation with a Colon Cancer Specialist at RGCIRC
If you have symptoms that need evaluation, a recent colon cancer diagnosis, or are seeking a second surgical opinion, our GI Oncosurgery team is available for consultation at both our Rohini and Niti Bagh campuses.
To book an appointment, simply call +91-11-4702 2222 (Rohini) / +91-11-4582 2222 (Niti Bagh, South Delhi) | Download the RGCI Care app on iOS and Android
OPD Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM | Emergency Services: 24×7 at both campuses
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does a colon cancer surgeon do?
A colon cancer surgeon, also known as a GI surgical oncologist, specialises in the surgical treatment of colon and rectal cancers. They assess whether surgery is needed, perform cancer surgery, and work with a multidisciplinary team to plan and coordinate treatment.
Is surgery always required for colon cancer?
No. Some very early-stage colon cancers can be removed during colonoscopy without surgery. In advanced cases, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy may be used before surgery or as the primary treatment. The treatment approach depends on the stage and characteristics of the cancer.
What is the difference between laparoscopic and robotic colon cancer surgery?
Both are minimally invasive techniques that use small incisions and generally allow faster recovery than open surgery. Robotic surgery provides enhanced visualisation and greater instrument precision, which can be beneficial in complex procedures.
What is HIPEC and when is it used for colon cancer?
HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy) is a specialised treatment used for selected patients whose colorectal cancer has spread to the lining of the abdomen. It combines surgery to remove visible tumour deposits with heated chemotherapy delivered directly into the abdominal cavity.
How do I find the best colon cancer surgeon near me in Delhi?
Look for a surgeon with specialised training in GI surgical oncology, experience in colorectal cancer surgery, access to minimally invasive techniques, and support from a multidisciplinary cancer team. RGCIRC offers specialised colon cancer care at its Rohini and Niti Bagh campuses.
What should I look for when choosing a colon cancer surgeon?
Things to consider when choosing a colon cancer surgeon include specialised expertise in colorectal cancer surgery, experience with complex cancer cases, access to laparoscopic and robotic surgery, and treatment within a multidisciplinary cancer programme.
Can colon cancer surgery be done without a colostomy bag?
In most cases, the bowel can be reconnected after the tumour is removed, avoiding a permanent stoma. Whether a temporary or permanent stoma is needed depends on the tumour’s location, the extent of surgery, and individual patient factors.
What is the recovery time after colon cancer surgery?
Recovery varies depending on the type of procedure. Many patients return to normal activities within a few weeks after minimally invasive surgery, while recovery after open or more complex surgery may take longer. Your surgeon will provide guidance based on your treatment plan.