Colorectal Cancer: Dan's Survivor Story

What happened, in summary

Dan Gut was 39 when symptoms he had ignored for about 18 months led to a major colorectal cancer prevention surgery. He had changes in bowel habits and blood in his stool, often after eating ice cream, and thought he might be lactose intolerant. When the symptoms persisted, his first colonoscopy found numerous polyps and 1 advanced precancerous growth in his colon. Cleveland Clinic evaluation showed the largest mass was an intramucosal carcinoma, an advanced lesion very close to becoming cancer. More than 100 other polyps were also present in different stages of growth. Because waiting could allow cancer to develop and spread, Dan’s surgeon recommended removing the colon to prevent colorectal cancer. He underwent minimally invasive laparoscopic total colectomy using small incisions rather than open surgery. His small intestine was connected directly to the rectum so digestion and bowel movements could continue. Dan stayed in the hospital for several days and recovered quickly. Because the removed lesions were precancerous, he did not need chemotherapy. He used over-the-counter medications to help regulate bowel function and also changed his diet after being diagnosed with celiac disease during the evaluation. As of March 2022, Dan reported higher energy, feeling better than before surgery, and being grateful he was treated before invasive cancer developed.