MINIMALLY INVASIVE MILES SURGERY FOR RADICAL COLORECTAL CANCER TREATMENT

Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital recently performed a successful laparoscopic Miles procedure to treat a complex case of advanced colorectal cancer. This minimally invasive surgery avoided open abdominal incisions, resulting in reduced postoperative pain, faster recovery, and lower infection risk.

Minimally Invasive Miles Surgery for Radical Colorectal Cancer Treatment

Mr. T.M.T. (64 years old, Nha Be Commune) had experienced persistent lower left abdominal pain but delayed seeking medical attention. Only when he developed rectal bleeding and intolerable anal pain did he decide to visit Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital.

After thorough clinical examination and diagnostic testing, the patient was diagnosed with low rectal cancer (stage T3N1M0), descending colon cancer that had invaded the abdominal wall, and multiple polyps in the sigmoid colon.

Given the complexity and dual tumor sites, the General Surgery team recommended a laparoscopic Miles procedure with simultaneous left colectomy, which was approved by the patient and family.

According to Dr. Mai Van Dung, MMed, Specialist Level I, 

Colorectal cancer originates in the colon or rectum and is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in both men and women. It may not produce noticeable symptoms at first, but when present, signs can include changes in bowel habits (such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrow stools), a persistent feeling of incomplete evacuation, rectal bleeding, dark or bloody stool, abdominal cramps, and unintended weight loss.

During surgery, the team identified a 3x3x3 cm tumor in the lower rectum and a 4x4x4 cm tumor in the descending colon that had invaded the abdominal wall. Despite the complexity, the operation was a success. Mr. T. recovered quickly and was discharged five days after surgery. His case was particularly challenging due to the late-stage nature of the disease and the presence of two tumors. Surgeons had to perform multiple procedures, including total removal of the rectum and sigmoid colon, along with a left colectomy. These required a high level of surgical expertise to minimize the risk of complications such as bleeding, anastomotic leakage, or wound infection.

In addition to utilizing minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques, the hospital also applied the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol throughout the patient’s care. This evidence-based approach supported early mobilization, better pain control, reduced complication rates, and shorter hospital stays. The patient was able to resume light eating just one day after surgery and was scheduled to begin chemotherapy after a one-month follow-up.

Dr. Mai Van Dung, MMed, Specialist Level I explained that laparoscopic Miles surgery has been effectively implemented at Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital for several years. This advanced technique offers several advantages, including avoiding a large abdominal incision, allowing for complete mesorectal excision, minimizing postoperative pain, accelerating recovery, and lowering the risk of surgical site infection — ultimately improving quality of life for patients with rectal cancer.

Colorectal cancer is highly treatable if detected early. Annual screening is recommended for individuals over 40 years of age or sooner for those with symptoms such as rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, weight loss, or poor appetite. High-risk individuals — including those with a family history of colorectal cancer, polyposis syndromes, or chronic colitis — should undergo early and regular screening. 

Early detection remains the key to successful treatment, and anyone experiencing persistent changes in bowel habits, blood in stool, or unexplained weight loss should consult a trusted medical facility for early screening and intervention.

Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital offers comprehensive colorectal cancer screening and treatment and accepts both public health insurance and private health insurance.

Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital

No. 88, Street No. 8, Trung Son Residential Area, Binh Hung Commune, Ho Chi Minh City.

Hotline: 18006767

info@nih.com.vn

BRC: No. 0312088602, issued on December 14th, 2012 by the Department of Planning and Investment of Ho Chi Minh City. Medical Examination and Treatment License No. 230/BYT-GPHĐ, issued by the Ministry of Health.