My husband was diagnosed with colorectal cancer and told that he needed surgery, but that since he was very heavy he would need to have an open surgery instead of a minimally invasive procedure. Does his weight really disqualify him from a laparoscopic operation?
Academic Title: Professor
Director, Division of Colon & Rectal Surgery
Board Certifications:
Colon & Rectal Surgery, Surgery
Laparoscopic or minimally invasive surgery for colorectal cancer can be performed on people who are overweight or obese. Therefore, weight does not usually disqualify someone from a minimally invasive procedure if other factors do not preclude that approach.