Abdomino-Perineal Resection (APR) is a surgical procedure that plays a crucial role in the treatment of various colorectal conditions, particularly rectal cancer. Science Direct states that the abdominoperineal resection remains essential as a salvage treatment for recurrent anal cancer.
Platforms like Medditour connect the patients seeking APR with the global hospitals and facilitators for affordable treatments.
This article delves into the significance of APR, details the surgical procedure, and explores how medical tourism in India, Thailand, and Turkey can help access it.
Significance of Abdomino-Perineal Resection
APR is a significant surgical procedure employed when conservative treatments for rectal cancer or other rectal diseases have proven ineffective. It is also a primary treatment option for patients with tumors located close to the anal region.
- Cancer Control: APR is a curative procedure for rectal cancer that involves the complete removal of the rectum and anus, along with associated lymph nodes, thus eliminating the source of the cancer.
- Quality of Life: In many cases, APR is the best option for patients to ensure the removal of the tumor, providing a chance for cancer-free survival. It helps enhance the patient’s quality of life.
- Pain Relief: Patients experiencing severe pain and discomfort due to rectal cancer or other rectal diseases can find relief through APR.
Procedure of Abdomino-Perineal Resection
The APR procedure is as follows.
- Abdominal Incision: The surgeon begins with giving anesthesia and then making an incision in the lower abdomen, near the navel. This incision allows access to the abdominal cavity.
- Rectal Dissection: The surgeon carefully dissects and separates the rectum and the surrounding structures from the abdominal cavity.
- Lymph Node Removal: Lymph nodes in the surrounding area are also removed for examination to determine if the cancer has spread.
- Creation of Colostomy: The colon is brought out through the abdominal wall to create a colostomy, an opening that diverts waste into an external pouch. This is a critical part of the procedure, as it ensures the removal of waste while allowing the rectal area to heal.
- Perineal Incision: A second incision is made in the perineum to remove the anus and any remaining rectal tissue.
- Closure and Recovery: Both incisions are closed, and the patient is carefully monitored in the recovery room. The colostomy bag is essential for waste removal and will become a part of the patient’s daily routine.
Cleveland Clinic states that on average, recovery after abdominoperineal resection surgery takes about three to six weeks.
Medical Tourism for APR
India, Thailand, and Turkey are renowned for their medical tourism industry, offering world-class medical facilities, highly trained healthcare professionals, and cost-effective treatments.
India is a top destination for medical tourism due to its internationally accredited hospitals, skilled surgeons, and English-speaking medical staff. The cost of healthcare in India is significantly lower than in many western countries, making it an attractive option for medical tourists.
Thailand is known for its modern healthcare infrastructure and excellent medical services. The country offers a wide range of medical treatments, including complex surgeries like APR.
Turkey has rapidly become a hub for medical tourism, offering state-of-the-art facilities and competitive pricing. Turkish hospitals often employ internationally accredited medical staff, ensuring high standards of care.
Medical tourism companies like Medditour provide opportunities for patients seeking abdomino-perineal resection to combine their treatments with vacation.
In conclusion, Abdomino-Perineal Resection is a crucial surgical procedure for patients suffering from rectal cancer and other rectal diseases. Medical tourism in countries like India, Thailand, and Turkey offers accessible and cost-effective healthcare options, enabling patients to access APR while enjoying top-notch medical facilities and a unique cultural experience.