Dale Johnson is a retiree living in Lenior City. During a routine colonoscopy through his primary care physician, several polyps were discovered in his colon. Fortunately, the polyps were benign, meaning they were not cancerous. To be safe, Johnson underwent surgery to remove them and is thankful for the compassionate and expert colon care he received from Colon and Rectal Surgeon Dr. Sung Lee at Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center in Knoxville.

Dale had surgery to remove a colon polyp to decrease his chance of cancer.

What is a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a procedure where the provider uses a long lighted tube to look at your rectum and entire colon with a small video camera. The provider looks for polyps or other abnormal areas that they may remove for further testing. This test usually requires sedation.

What is a Polyp?

Polyps are growths made up of fleshy clumps of tissue that form on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Small polyps are rarely cancerous, but over time, the cells in some polyp types can change and become cancer. The longer a polyp is there and the more it grows, the more likely this is to happen.

When Polyps Are Found

In spring of 2023, Johnson had a routine colonoscopy with his primary care provider. He has undergone this screening every five years since the age of 50, but nothing has been discovered before.

This time, the doctor discovered four polyps that needed to be removed. During the test, the doctor removed three of the four polyps; colonoscopies are both diagnostic and can allow for intervention if the doctor finds anything out of the ordinary. One of Johnson’s polyps required a more extensive surgery, so he was referred to Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center.

There, Johnson met Sung Lee, MD, a colorectal surgeon with Premier Surgical Associates at Fort Sanders Regional. A biopsy revealed his growths were not cancerous, news to which his family rejoiced. However, he wasn’t out of the woods yet.

Sidestepping Cancer

Dr. Sung Lee, Colon and Rectal Surgeon

“He told me I’d need surgery and that the growth needed to come out, whether it was cancerous or not,” Johnson recalls.

Dr. Lee explains, “This surgical procedure was recommended to make sure there were no cancerous cells underneath. If you leave polyps for a long time, they can become cancerous.”

“Most colorectal cancers start as polyps,” says Dr. Lee. “These are growths caused by changes in the cells that line the inside of the colon or rectum. Over time, the polyps can become cancerous. Finding and removing polyps while they’re small may stop cancer from ever forming.”

Colorectal cancers most often start when cells in a polyp start growing abnormally. As a cancerous tumor grows, it can invade the deeper layers of the colon or rectal wall. Over time, the cancer can grow beyond the colon or rectum and into nearby organs or lymph nodes and other parts of the body. Regular screenings can prevent cancer from forming or detect it in its early stages.

At Fort Sanders Regional

In May 2023, Johnson underwent a robotic-assisted colectomy to remove one polyp approximately 20 mm in size. He received a few small incisions on the right side of his abdomen and spent one night in the hospital.

Dr. Lee explains this procedure included removing 29 cm of the patient’s colon, which is called a resection (and the remaining ends are connected together for regular bowel function).

“Using robot guided technology, I go in with an instrument and make only a few incisions. Patients do very well with this minimally invasive technique. No big incisions are needed, and I do everything on the inside. The risk of complications, bleeding, and developing a hernia is much lower, the hospital stay is shorter, and often the patient has less pain during recovery.”

“I met Dr. Lee several times before the surgery,” Johnson says. “He told me a lot of things that could happen, including the risks of surgery. He told me they were going to operate as if it were cancerous, and that he’d take enough out so it likely wouldn’t show up later.”

Johnson had no complications or issues with recovery. “I liked Dr. Lee a lot – he explained everything very well,” he says. “I was treated extremely well, and all the nurses and everyone at the hospital were great.”

“He did great. He was a very nice guy,” says Dr. Lee. “When a patient is doing well, I let them go home as soon as possible. To be cleared, they must be able to eat and drink without nausea or vomiting. I check on their pain level and bowel function before they go home.”

Recovered and Feeling Great

Johnson is feeling great and in good health. He is following up with his primary care provider for his next colonoscopy to stay on top of any future issues. He enjoys spending time with his children and grandchildren and attending their ball games.

“I’m 74, and I got to take care of what I got left,” he says with a laugh. “I had my appendix out when I was 15, and boy that left a big scar. These are tiny scars you wouldn’t even notice.” He would heartily recommend Dr. Lee and Fort Sanders Regional to anyone who needs surgery or getting checked out.

Importance of Screenings

According to Dr. Lee, polyps in the colorectal area are very common. “Most Americans have them. That’s why we recommend screening colonoscopies so we can keep watch or remove any cell tissue before it becomes a problem. Most of the time, the polyps can be removed during your colonoscopy, and you don’t need another surgery.”

Although it’s common, many people do not show any symptoms of colon polyps until they become very large. This may cause bleeding, changes in your bowel habits, blood in your stool, or abdominal pain. It’s important to report any of these symptoms to your doctor so they can determine next steps.

The American Cancer Society and U.S. Preventive Services Task Force advise people at average risk for colorectal cancer start screening at age 45.

Dr. Lee says screenings will be recommended every 10 years or sooner, depending on each individual’s risk for colorectal cancer. “If polyps are present, it could be every five years. If you have multiple polyps, you may be asked to repeat the test every year, every three years, or even every six months.”

Dr. Sung Lee is a fellowship-trained Colon and Rectal Surgeon with Premier Surgical at Fort Sanders Regional in Knoxville, TN. He is board-certified in Colon and Rectal, and General Surgery. To learn more about colon and rectal surgeries, visit Premier Surgical Colon and Rectal Surgery.

The post Don’t Underestimate the Importance of Colon Screenings first appeared on Premier Surgical.

Understanding Colon and Rectal Conditions

Colon and rectal conditions are a variety of health issues affecting the large intestine (colon) and the rectum. Among these, colon and rectal cancer (collectively referred to as colorectal cancer) are of serious concern due to their high prevalence.

Identifying the Signs and Symptoms 

The physicians of Premier Surgical want you to understand the common signs and symptoms of colon and rectal cancer since that is the first step toward early detection. Symptoms may include:

• Changes in bowel habits: This can mean diarrhea, constipation, or a change in the consistency of your stool, lasting more than a few days.
• Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool: Any instance of this should prompt a visit to your healthcare provider.
• Persistent abdominal discomfort or pain: Cramps, gas, or pain can be symptoms.
• Weakness or fatigue: Unexplained tiredness or sudden weight loss could be a sign.

Keep in mind that these symptoms can occur with many conditions that aren’t cancer. However, if you experience any of these symptoms for an extended period, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional.

The Importance of Early Detection and Screening

Colon and rectal cancers are highly treatable if detected early. Regular screening is one of the most powerful weapons in preventing colorectal cancer. Screenings, such as colonoscopies and sigmoidoscopies, can detect precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon and rectum, which can be removed before they turn into cancer.

Current guidelines recommend that people at average risk should start screening at age 45, but those with a family history or other risk factors may need to start sooner. Your doctor can guide you on when to begin screening based on your risk factors.

Treatment Options

At Premier Surgical Associates in Knoxville, Cleveland, and Johnson City, TN,, we pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive range of treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs. Treatment for colon and rectal cancer may involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapies, or a combination of these.

For early-stage cancer, surgery alone may be sufficient, often performed laparoscopically or robotically. For advanced stages, a combination of treatments might be necessary. Our dedicated team at Premier Surgical collaborates closely with each patient to design the best treatment plan for them.

Understanding colon and rectal conditions, notably colon and rectal cancer, is crucial for early detection and treatment. At Premier Surgical, we are committed to providing high-quality, personalized care for our patients. 

If you have concerns about these conditions or would like more information, please visit our Colon and Rectal Surgery webpage.

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Understanding Hemorrhoids: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Hemorrhoids – a term that can evoke a sense of discomfort just by its mere mention. They’re a common health issue that millions of people deal with at some point in their lives. However, due to the stigma and embarrassment associated with this condition, many individuals lack the necessary knowledge about hemorrhoids. This lack of awareness can sometimes lead to a delay in treatment, thereby complicating the condition. In this article, the team at Premier Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment Center in Knoxville, TN, aims to help you understand hemorrhoids, their causes, symptoms, and various treatment options.

What are Hemorrhoids? 

Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins located around the anus or in the lower rectum, similar to varicose veins. They can either be internal, occurring inside the rectum, or external, developing under the skin around the anus.

Causes of Hemorrhoids

There are several factors that can increase your risk of developing hemorrhoids:

• Straining during bowel movements: This is one of the most common causes of hemorrhoids. Continuous straining puts pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus, leading to swelling.
• Chronic constipation or diarrhea: These conditions can result in increased straining during bowel movements, promoting the development of hemorrhoids.
• Age: Hemorrhoids are more common in individuals who are aged 45 and older due to the weakening of the tissues supporting the veins in the rectum and anus.
• Pregnancy: Pregnant women often develop hemorrhoids due to the pressure exerted by the growing uterus on the rectal veins.
• Obesity and a sedentary lifestyle: These factors increase the risk of hemorrhoids due to the additional pressure on the pelvic veins.

 Symptoms of Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids can manifest a range of symptoms. These can include: 

• Itching or irritation in your anal region
• Pain or discomfort
• Swelling around your anus
• Bleeding during bowel movements
• A lump near your anus, which may be sensitive or painful

Treatment Options for Hemorrhoids

Thankfully, hemorrhoids are generally not serious and are treatable. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition. For milder cases, lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and over-the-counter remedies can effectively treat hemorrhoids. This can include high-fiber diets, increased water intake, regular exercise, and avoiding straining during bowel movements. 

However, for persistent or more severe cases medical treatment such as Infrared Coagulation may be recommended for long term relief. 

Infrared Coagulation (IRC): This non-invasive procedure uses infrared light to cause small, bleeding, internal hemorrhoids to harden and shrivel. The Premier Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment Center specializes in IRC. It is effective in eliminating more than 90 percent of troublesome hemorrhoids. IRC is covered by most insurance plans.

We are the only dedicated hemorrhoid treatment center in the southeastern region.  Our skilled and compassionate professionals prioritize your comfort and privacy, offering top-notch treatment options, including the minimally invasive IRC method. 

If you’re experiencing symptoms of hemorrhoids, don’t let discomfort or embarrassment hold you back from seeking help. Contact our Confidential Hemorrhoid Hotline at (865) 588-9952 or submit our PREMIER HEMORRHOID CENTER APPOINTMENT REQUEST FORM to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards eliminating your hemorrhoids for good.

With our help, you can regain your comfort and peace of mind. Remember, there’s no shame in having hemorrhoids, but there’s a great deal of victory in overcoming them!

The post Understanding Hemorrhoids: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options first appeared on Premier Surgical.

Patricia “Patsy” Hill, 81, says age is just a number and “you’re only as old as you feel.” Hill has lived a rich life and enjoys spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. After having surgery to remove a cancerous mass from her colon in early 2023, she is living cancer-free.

Earlier this year, the Knoxville resident felt weak and was unable to keep down food and water. She went to Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center, her hospital of choice, where she knew she would be treated well. A CT scan in the emergency room revealed a mass blocking her colon. After further testing, it turned out to be cancer.

Patricia is grateful that Premier Surgeon Dr, Joseph Thurman was able to successfully remove a cancerous mass from her colon.

“I was surprised to hear I had cancer, but I couldn’t fall apart for my family,” she says. “When you’re sick, you pray to God – you just have to turn it over to Him and then not worry about it.”

Hill was admitted to Fort Sanders Regional in March. She stayed almost a month, first undergoing surgery, followed by rehabilitation in the hospital’s Transitional Care Unit. She had lost a dangerous
amount of weight from not being able to eat or drink, and was very weak. After surgery, her hospital team helped her regain strength through exercises and practicing walking in the hallway.

At Fort Sanders Regional

Hill’s surgeon was Joseph B. Thurman, MD, FACS, of Premier Surgical at Fort Sanders Regional. As a general surgeon, Dr. Thurman treats a wide array of diseases and conditions, including gallbladder disease, hernias and gastrointestinal issues.

He says, “The biopsy showed adenocarcinoma, the most common type of colon cancer. This required a procedure called a left hemicolectomy with diverting ileostomy. That means in addition to removing the part of the colon that contained the cancerous mass, the patient needed an ostomy bag for six weeks to give the colon time to heal and avoid leaking. Then she had the ostomy reversed.”

Dr. Thurman explains the surgery was emergency intervention. “She was hit with several ‘gut-punches’ at the same time. She came to the ER for belly pain, only to find that not only was her colon obstructed, but that it was caused by cancer. We knew that because of the blockage, she would need not only a resection but also the ostomy, and therefore require two surgeries. It’s a lot to process in just a few days.”

After the ostomy reversal procedure in April, Hill has normal GI function, is healing at home and feels great. “I’m an early riser,” she says. “I like to get on with it. I have had to slow down, because even though my scars have healed, Dr. Thurman says my insides are still healing.”

Hill hopes to soon return to being “healthy as a horse” and to get her energy back, living cancer-free.

Compassionate Care

Because she stayed a month as an inpatient and in rehab, Hill got to know many of her caregivers. She says, “The bedside manners couldn’t have been better, especially with Dr. Thurman. I told him I would adopt him and claim him as my son. He is just wonderful.”

She described the nursing staff who brought her coffee and checked on her constantly. She cherishes the souls who cared for her in her weakest moments.

“As a senior citizen, I appreciated the friendliness and willingness to explain things to me,” Hill says.

Dr. Thurman says Hill is the “poster child” for how good health going into surgery can benefit the ultimate outcome. “It makes a difference in recovery at all ages, but especially at her age,” he says. “Ms. Hill is an active 81-year-old and was motivated and engaged with her recovery. She had a great attitude throughout everything. She did fantastic, recovered extremely well and has a good long-term prognosis.”

A Lesson for Others

Hill says, “I bet this [cancerous mass] would have shown on a colonoscopy, but I haven’t had one. If this story helps just one person do the screening, it will be worth it – because it could save a life.”

Dr. Thurman concurs. “This is an example of why you should get a screening colonoscopy,” Dr. Thurman says. “This patient was a non-smoker, followed a healthy diet, was doing all the right things, and still got colon cancer. It’s a lesson to keep up with your health and to get those screenings.”

He recommends adults start getting colonoscopies at age 45 as recommended by the latest guidelines if there is no family history of colon cancer, and sooner for higher-risk individuals. Always check with your primary care physician for advice on cancer screenings.

Dr. Joe Thurman is a general surgeon with the Premier Surgical Associates office at Fort Sanders Regional in Knoxville. To learn more about colon cancer treatment visit  https://www.premiersurgical.com/specialties/colon-and-rectal-surgery/

The post 81-Year-Old Has Curative Colon Surgery first appeared on Premier Surgical.

Colon and Rectal Cancer: Signs and Symptoms

Colon and rectal cancer are two types of cancer that are relatively common. They are more likely to develop in individuals with a family history of these cancers, yet environmental factors can also trigger the onset of these cancers, affecting anyone.

What should you do if you are worried you may have either of these cancers? Here are key things to know about colon and rectal cancer from the experienced surgeons at Premier Surgical Associates in East, TN.

The American Cancer Society states that, in 2023, an estimated 106,970 new colon cancer cases will be diagnosed, and 46,050 new rectal cancer cases will be diagnosed.

Signs and Symptoms of Colon Cancer

The most common symptoms of colon cancer include the following:

• Persistent change in bowel habits. This could include a change in the way your stool looks, its size, and the frequency of diarrhea or constipation.
• The inability to empty your bowel fully
• Bleeding or blood found in the stool
• Weakness and fatigue
• Abdominal pain and discomfort that often feels like cramping or gas pain
• Unexplained weight loss

Signs and Symptoms of Rectal Cancer

The most common signs of rectal cancer include:

• Dark coloring or bright red blood in stool
• A change in bowel habits, such as more frequent bowel movements, constipation, or diarrhea, frequently
• Unexplained weight loss
• Narrow stool
• Abdominal pain
• Weakness and fatigue

The best way to determine if you are at risk for colon and rectal cancer is talking with your healthcare provider to assess your risk factors. More importantly, if you experience signs and symptoms of colon and rectal cancer, your healthcare provider may recommend a colonoscopy or other screenings to detect any signs of cancer.

It’s imperative for patients to understand the significance of regular screenings because they can help detect colon and rectal cancer at an early stage when it is more treatable.

What Should You Do If You’re At Risk?

Surgery is often part of the treatment for colon or rectal cancer. Premier Surgical surgeons Dr. Greg Midis, Dr. Sung Lee, and Dr. David Roife were part of the effort that helped Fort Sanders Regional in Knoxville recently become the first hospital in Tennessee to earn a National Rectal Cancer Accreditation.

Schedule an Appointment Today

If you’re facing a colon or rectal cancer diagnosis, put your trust in a care team that’s highly experienced and dedicated to helping patients achieve their best outcome. To request an appointment with one of our Premier Surgical surgeons in Knoxville, Cleveland, or Johnson City, Tennessee, visit schedule an appointment.

The post Colon and Rectal Cancer: Signs and Symptoms first appeared on Premier Surgical.

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness month.

Dr. Sung Lee, Colon and Rectal Surgeon at Premier Surgical Associates at Fort Sanders Regional in Knoxville TN, emphasizes the importance of early screening to prevention of colorectal cancer.

“Early detection is key! If you can catch colorectal cancer early on, it can get resected, and sometimes the patient won’t need chemotherapy or radiation therapy when it is caught early on. Now, it is recommended to get a colorectal cancer screening at age 45.”

What is a colorectal cancer screening?
Colorectal cancer screening is a test that detects unusual growths in the colon or rectum that may be cancerous.

There are five different types of tests that are used to screen for colorectal cancer:

• Fecal occult blood test (FOBT)
In this test, the stool (fecal matter) is tested for the presence of blood that can only be seen through a microscope.

There are two types of FOBT. There’s the guaiac FOBT and the immunochemical FOBT.

In a guaiac FOBT, the stool is tested on a special card with a chemical. If there’s blood in the stool, the card changes color.

In an immunochemical FOBT, a special liquid is added to the stool. This mixture is then placed in a machine that contains antibodies. If there’s blood in the stool, a line appears on the window of the machine.

• Sigmoidoscopy
This is a procedure that looks into the inside of your rectum and colon.

A special tool called a sigmoidoscope is inserted through the rectum into your sigmoid colon (lower colon). This device is also used to remove tissue samples or polyps for analysis.

• Colonoscopy
In this procedure, a special device called a colonoscopy is inserted through the rectum into your colon. It is used to inspect the inside of your rectum and colon to check for polyps, abnormal growths, and cancer.

Like the sigmoidoscope, a colonoscope can also remove tissue samples or polyps for analysis.

• Virtual colonoscopy
Virtual colonoscopy is a procedure that uses computed tomography (a series of x-rays).

A computer uses a series of pictures from the colon to create a more detailed image. Through this, doctors can identify polyps and other unusualities in the colon.

• DNA stool test
In this stool test, the DNA in the stool sample is checked for any unusual changes.

When should you get screened for colon and rectal cancer?
The American Cancer Society now recommends people with average risk of colorectal cancer start regular screening at the age of 45.

Average risk means those without a family history of colorectal cancer and no personal history of polyps or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

If you do have a family history of colorectal cancer or personal history of polyps or IBD, you are considered a high risk for getting colorectal cancer. The expert physicians of Premier Surgical Associates of Knoxville and Cleveland, TN recommend scheduling a screening immediately. This will allow your physician to determine the best treatment option for you, and as always, early detection is key to preventing the spread of cancer.

If you have questions about colorectal cancer screening and/or surgery, we are here to help. To request an appointment with a Premier Surgical physician, visit this link.

The post Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month first appeared on Premier Surgical.

It is estimated that about 1 in 23 men and 1 in 25 women will develop colorectal cancer.
It is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men and women in the United States.

What is colorectal cancer?
Colorectal cancer usually begins as a polyp inside the colon or rectum. While not all polyp growths change into cancer, some do over time. The chance of a polyp turning into cancer greatly depends on what type of polyp it is.

There are certain factors a physician considers to determine if a polyp could develop into cancer:

• Polyp size (if the polyp is larger than 1 cm)
• Number of polyps (if there are more than 3 polyps found)
• Presence of dysplasia (dysplasia is a precancerous state on which an area in the polyp or lining of the colon or rectum have cells that look abnormal)

What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?
Some of the most common symptoms of colorectal cancer include:

• A persistent change in the bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation and change in the consistency of the stool)
• Blood in the stool
• Abdominal discomfort such as cramping or gas
• Constant feeling that the bowel doesn’t empty completely
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue or weakness

Diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer
To determine if your symptoms are indicative of colorectal cancer, your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy and biopsy (to test if the polyps are cancerous). In some cases, he/she may also request blood tests.

Treatment usually involves surgery to remove the cancer. The board-certified surgeons of Premier Surgical Associates of Knoxville and Cleveland, TN, have vast experience in treating colorectal cancer.

The type of surgical options available for you will depend on your cancer stage, the presence of metastasis, and your overall health condition.

Who is at risk for colorectal cancer?
There are certain factors that can increase your risk of developing colorectal cancer. These include old age, being of African-American descent, having inflammatory intestinal conditions, a history of polyps, smoking, heavy use of alcohol, obesity, and a family history of colon cancer.

How can I prevent colorectal cancer?

Colon and Rectal Surgeon, Dr, Sung Lee, of Premier Surgical at Fort Sanders Regional, highly emphasizes the importance of early screening in the prevention of colorectal cancer.

“Early detection is key! If you can catch colorectal cancer early on, it can get resected, and sometimes the patient won’t need chemotherapy or radiation therapy when it is caught early on. Now, it is recommended to get a colorectal cancer screening at age 45.”

If you have questions about colorectal cancer screening and/or the Premier Surgical physicians who treat Colon and Rectal Cancer visit: https://www.premiersurgical.com/premier-surgical-services/colon-and-rectal-surgery/.

The post Colorectal Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment first appeared on Premier Surgical.

According to cancer.org, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States. For this year, it is estimated that there will be over 103,000 new cases of colon cancer and about 45,000 new cases of rectal cancer in the country.

Colorectal Cancer Screening
There’s no sure way of preventing colorectal cancer, but the physicians of Premier Surgical in Knoxville and Cleveland, TN, want to remind you that there are things you can do to reduce your risk of developing it. One of the most important things is having a colorectal cancer screening.

Screening is a process of detecting early signs of cancer or precancer for those who are not experiencing symptoms of the disease.

Regular colorectal cancer screening is considered to be one of the most effective tools in preventing colorectal cancer.

It takes about 10 to 15 years for abnormal cells or polyps to develop into colorectal cancer. Through regular screening, these polyps are found and removed quickly before they can develop into cancer.

What you should know about colorectal cancer screening
Regular screening for colorectal cancer begins at the age of 50. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends adults aged 50 to 75 to be screened for colorectal cancer. For adults aged 76 to 85, the Task Force recommends asking their primary providers about the screening.

USPSTF recommends the following colorectal cancer screening strategies: stool tests, colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, and CT colonography.

Early testing
Although the recommended age for colorectal cancer begins at the age of 50, you have to talk to your doctor about earlier screening (before the age of 50) if:

• You have a family history of colorectal cancer.
• You have inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis.
• You have a genetic syndrome such as familial adenomatous polyposis.

Regular colorectal cancer screening may not assure you that you’ll never get colorectal cancer, but it can lead to better treatment outcomes.

If you think you have an increased risk of colorectal cancer, speak with your doctor on when to get screened, the best screening tests for you, and how often to get tested.

The physicians of Premier Surgical Associates in Knoxville and Cleveland, TN, are experienced in the surgical treatment of colorectal cancer. To request an appointment with one of our physicians, visit https://www.premiersurgical.com/request-appointment/.

The post Colorectal Cancer Screening Month first appeared on Premier Surgical.

Fort Sanders Regional Patient Promotes Early Detection

When it came to health screenings, one word described Karen Russell: vigilant. A stroke survivor who worked at Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center for years, she was always faithful about scheduling check-ups at her doctor’s office.

Except for one. Every year, Russell’s physician would emphasize the importance of getting a screening colonoscopy. Every year, Russell would refuse. For one thing, she had heard stories about the “prep” solution that patients have to drink before having the procedure. The debate went on for years, until Russell was nearing retirement. Then one day last October Russell came home from work to find an at-home test kit on her front porch – from her doctor.“He didn’t tell me he was sending it,” Russell says. “He got tired of fighting with me and he just had it sent!”

Russell snatched the package off the porch and put it away. She came across it while she was cleaning up after the holidays.“I’m not going to do it,” Russell told herself adamantly. “I don’t want to do it and I’m not going to do it.”But she couldn’t shake the feeling that she needed to take the test. Looking back, Russell says she believes God was guiding the process.Russell sent her sample back to the company that made the test kit. Two weeks later, she received a call from her physician’s office. Her doctor had received the results: Russell tested positive.

Understanding that a home test can have a “false positive” result, Russell chose not to worry about it. But she scheduled a colonoscopy to be sure, and had the procedure on New Year’s Eve. When the procedure was finished, her gastroenterologist, delivered the news that he had found a polyp the length of a finger and that it appeared to be cancerous.

Dr. Troy Kimsey, Surgical Oncologist

Premier Surgical surgical oncologist Troy Kimsey, MD, removed the cancer before the end of January. Russell spent five days in the hospital, and says she was treated with complete care, kindness and respect at Fort Sanders Regional. “In fact, I couldn’t have been treated any better.”

The next time she saw her family physician, she apologized to him.

Russell wants to make sure everyone knows that the benefits of having a colonoscopy far outweigh the fears. Catching the cancer in time meant avoiding chemotherapy, and may have saved her life.

If she had waited any longer, chemotherapy might have been required. In fact, acting when she did may have saved her life. Studying her family records, Russell discovered that colorectal cancer is in her family history.

“I dodged a bullet,” Russell says plainly. “Don’t wait. It’s important.”

For more information about cancer diagnosis and surgical treatment, please visit Premier Surgical’s Surgical Oncology page.

The post Colon Cancer Survivor Admits: I Dodged a Bullet first appeared on Premier Surgical.

What are screenings?

Screenings or screening tests are medical procedures conducted on individuals who don’t have the symptoms yet. They are highly recommended for those who are at risk of developing certain types of diseases such as cancer.

Why are screening tests important?

Colorectal screenings can help find precancerous polyps. Most cases of colorectal cancer usually develop from these polyps.

To prevent colorectal cancer, it is recommended to have regular screening starting at the age of 50 (the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends adults age 50 to 75 to be screened for colorectal cancer). For older adults age 76 and above, the doctor will help decide if the screening test is still necessary.

Are there exceptions for being screened earlier than 50?

Although it’s recommended to be screened starting at the age of 50, there are some who may be recommended for screening before they turn 50. This is typically in the case of adults who have a close relative with colorectal polyps, those with inflammatory bowel disease like ulcerative colitis, or genetic diseases like Lynch syndrome.

What are the different screening tests for colorectal cancer?

There are different tests used for finding precancerous polyps. Your doctor will help determine the most appropriate tests for the patient.

The most common screening tests for colorectal cancer include the stool test, colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, and CT colonography. Your doctor can help to determine which test is most appropriate for you based on your preference, resources, and current health condition.

The physicians of Premier Surgical in Knoxville surgically treat patients with colorectal and many other types of cancer. Early detection is a key in a successful treatment and outcome.

The post Colorectal Screenings first appeared on Premier Surgical.