Discharge Instructions for Surgery for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum

You have been diagnosed with cancer of the colon and rectum (also called colorectal cancer). This is the abnormal and uncontrolled growth of cells in the colon and rectum. The surgical removal of part or the entire colon (colectomy) is the primary treatment for most colorectal cancers. How much of your colon or rectum the surgeon removes depends on the location of the tumor. Your healthcare provider may recommend additional therapies, such as radiation or chemotherapy. This sheet will help you remember how to care for yourself after surgery.

Always follow any specific instructions you get from your healthcare providers, and contact them if you have any questions. 

Activity

Suggestions for activity include: 

• Do not lift anything heavier than 5 pounds or use a vacuum cleaner until your healthcare provider says it is okay.
• Do not drive until your healthcare provider says it is okay.
• If you ride in a car for long trips, stop often to stretch your legs.
• Ask your healthcare provider when you can return to work. This should be within 6 to 8 weeks after surgery, depending on the kind of work you do.
• Slowly increase your activity over time. Take short walks on a level surface.

Home care

Suggestions for care at home include: 

• If you have a stoma (colostomy or ileostomy), take care of it as directed. Your healthcare providers showed you how to do this before you left the hospital. Ask for an instruction sheet about colostomy care if you did not already receive one.
• Shower as needed. Ask a friend or family member to stand close by in case you need help.
• Wash your incision (cut) site with soap and water, and pat dry.
• Check your incision every day for redness, drainage, swelling or separation of the skin.
• Take your medicines exactly as directed.
• Do not take any over-the-counter medicine, supplements or herbal remedies unless your healthcare provider says it is okay.

Follow-up

Make a follow-up appointment as directed by your healthcare providers.