On 24/12, Associate Professor, Doctor Nguyen Xuan Hung, Director of the Center for Digestive Diseases at Hong Ngoc General Hospital, reported that an elderly patient was admitted after experiencing bloody stools one day prior. The patient also reported persistent loose stools for over one month, which did not improve with self-treatment at home.

During a colonoscopy, doctors discovered a firm, proliferative tumor measuring 6x7cm, which had invaded the entire lumen of the large intestine. Biopsy results confirmed moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma.

Associate Professor, Doctor Nguyen Xuan Hung and his surgical team operate on Mr. Duc. Photo: Hong Ngoc General Hospital

Doctor Hung noted the case was complex due to the patient's advanced age, hypertension, and chronic kidney failure, posing a high risk of complications if immediate surgery was performed. The hospital conducted an interdisciplinary consultation and decided to prioritize medical treatment to stabilize the patient's condition before proceeding with surgery.

After three days of intensive treatment, Mr. Duc's health improved, and he was deemed fit for surgery. During the operation, doctors found a firm tumor in the sigmoid colon, which had invaded the entire colon lumen, accompanied by multiple diverticula and small lymph nodes.

The surgical team removed the segment of the colon containing the tumor and took 12 lymph nodes for examination. Results indicated that the cancer had spread to the lymphatic vessels, nerves, and the outermost layer of the intestinal wall, meaning it was no longer in an early stage. However, all surgical margins were clear of cancer cells, confirming the complete removal of the tumor.

Following surgery, the patient received care under an enhanced recovery program, including pain management and continuous monitoring, and was discharged after 7 days.

Hong Ngoc Hospital provides digestive health check-ups for individuals aged 60 and above. Photo: Hong Ngoc General Hospital

Colorectal cancer is a malignant disease originating in the large intestine. According to Globocan 2020, Vietnam records nearly 16,000 new cases and over 8,200 deaths annually. The disease is common in individuals over 50 years old but is increasingly observed in younger people. Colorectal cancer ranks 5th among common cancers in Vietnam, following liver, lung, breast, and stomach cancers.

The disease often begins subtly with easily mistaken symptoms such as persistent diarrhea or constipation, changes in bowel habits, and dull abdominal pain. In elderly individuals, symptoms are often vague and easily overlooked, leading to late detection, which makes treatment more complex and costly.

Associate Professor, Doctor Nguyen Xuan Hung emphasized that early detection is crucial. If diagnosed in the initial stage, the disease can be managed immediately with a simple endoscopic procedure, avoiding complex surgery or prolonged hospitalization. Therefore, individuals, especially the elderly, should seek medical attention promptly if they notice any unusual signs for timely diagnosis and intervention.

Van Ha

To support comprehensive healthcare for the elderly, Hong Ngoc General Hospital offers special promotions for customers aged 60 and above:

50% off digestive specialist consultations

35% off digestive endoscopy fees

20% off procedure, surgery, and hospitalization costs when indicated.

Consultation hotline: 0911908856