Surgery for Colorectal Cancer in India: Guide To Cost, Hospital, Surgeon
Get affordable surgery for colorectal cancer in India! Save ~92% compared to US costs while accessing expert surgeons and JCI-certified hospitals. Learn about costs, treatment options, recovery, and success rate. Dive into this blog for a life-changing solution!
What Is the Cost of Surgery for Colorectal Cancer in India?
The cost of surgery for colorectal cancer in India ranges from $3,000-$11,800. On the other hand, the same procedure costs around $100,000 in the US. It implies you can save up to 92% by getting this procedure in India. Check out the table below for a detailed cost comparison:
| Procedure* | Cost in India (USD) | Cost in the US (USD) | Savings % |
| Surgery for Colorectal Cancer | Starts at $3,000 | $100,000[1] (Surgery + round of Chemo) |
~92% |
| Colectomy/ Rectal Resect/ Colore Resecti-IPS | Starts at $11,800 |
Cost of Alternate Treatments for Colorectal Cancer
Alternative treatments for colorectal cancer in India include immunotherapy, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Additional treatments include targeted therapy drugs, ablation, and embolization.
Refer to the table below for a detailed cost comparison of alternative treatments in India versus the US.
| Treatment | Cost in India (USD) | Cost in the US (USD) |
| Radiation Therapy | $4,000 - $6,500 | $15,000[2] |
| Chemotherapy | Starts at $250 | $12,000[3] |
| Advanced Immunotherapy like CAR T-cell | $85,000 | $400,000 |
Know Your Alternate Treatment Options
- Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays, like X-rays, to destroy cancer cells.[4]
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves treatment with anti-cancer drugs injected into a vein or taken orally. These drugs travel through the bloodstream, reaching most parts of the body.[5]
- Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy for colorectal cancer in India boosts the body's immune system to recognize better and attack cancer cells, offering a promising treatment option.[6]
- Targeted Therapy Drugs: These drugs enter the bloodstream and reach almost all parts of the body. This process makes them effective against cancers that have spread to distant areas.[7]
- Ablation and Embolization: This treatment treats colorectal cancer that has spread to other body parts. These methods are often used for cancers in the liver or lungs.[8]
Overview of Colorectal Cancer
In this section, you will learn what colorectal cancer is and how it impacts the body. You will also understand why surgery is used to treat it, how it works, and get a global perspective on the disease.
Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or the rectum. Most of these cancers begin as a growth on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. These growths are called 'polyps'.
Polyps are common, especially as people get older. Most polyps are not precancerous. However, some polyps can turn into cancer over time.
If a polyp becomes cancerous, it can grow into the wall of the colon or rectum. The wall has many layers. Colorectal cancer starts in the innermost layer and can grow through the other layers. Note that cancer cells can spread into blood vessels. From there, they can reach other parts of the body.
The stage of colorectal cancer depends on how deeply it grows into the wall and if it has spread outside the colon or rectum.
Source: American Cancer Society[9]
2nd
Leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide
1.9 million
New cases in 2020
930,000
Deaths worldwide in 2020
Source: World Health Organization[10]
Surgery is usually used to treat colorectal cancer when it has not spread to other parts of the body.[11]
Before surgery for colon cancer, you will get a general anesthetic to make you sleep. The surgeon will use either of the two methods to perform the surgery:
- Open Surgery: The surgeon makes one large cut down your abdomen to remove the cancer.
- Keyhole Surgery: The surgeon makes several small cuts in your abdomen. They use a long tube with a light and camera to see inside. Tools are inserted through the other cuts to perform the surgery. This is also called laparoscopic surgery. Sometimes, a robotic system helps the surgeon.
After the operation, the surgeon will stitch up the cuts. The size of the scars will depend on the type of surgery you have.
Source: Medical News Today[12]
Global Perspective on Colorectal Cancer
Researchers are making significant strides in understanding and treating colorectal cancer. Here are some key advancements:
- Immunotherapy: Scientists have found that certain drugs, like nivolumab and ipilimumab, help patients with Lynch syndrome or MSI-H colorectal cancer. These drugs help the immune system better target cancer cells.
- Targeted Therapies: New treatments focus on specific genetic mutations. For example, encorafenib combined with cetuximab targets the BRAF gene mutation. This combination shows promising results in shrinking tumors.
- Liquid Biopsies: This method detects cancer DNA in the blood. It helps in early diagnosis and monitoring treatment response. Studies show ctDNA testing can identify patients needing additional chemotherapy after surgery.
- Combining Treatments: Researchers are exploring combining immunotherapy with other treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. This approach aims to improve outcomes for patients who do not respond well to immunotherapy alone.
- Diet and Lifestyle: Studies indicate that dietary factors and lifestyle changes can impact colorectal cancer risk. Reducing red meat consumption and managing obesity can significantly help.
Source: National Cancer Institute[13]
India at the Frontrow of Colorectal Cancer Initiatives
India is at the forefront of colorectal cancer treatment with the FOxTROT 2 India trial. This study tests giving chemotherapy before surgery. It aims to improve outcomes and reduce cancer recurrence. The trial benefits thousands of patients across India.[14]
Procedure: Surgery for Colorectal Cancer in India
Surgery for colorectal cancer in India is advanced and affordable. Skilled surgeons perform these procedures at a much lower cost than in many Western countries. This section explains the types of surgeries, their processes, and the benefits of getting treatment in India.
Types of Surgeries
Some early colon cancers (stage 0 and early stage I) and most polyps can be removed during a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy uses a long, flexible tube with a small camera to see inside the colon. The tube is put into the rectum and eased into the colon.
During a colonoscopy, two types of surgeries can be done:[15]
The cancer is removed along with the polyp. The polyp is cut at its base, like cutting the stem of a mushroom. A wire loop with an electric current is used to cut the polyp off the colon wall.
This is a bit more involved. Tools are used to remove small cancers from the inner lining of the colon. A small amount of healthy tissue around the cancer is also removed.
These procedures do not require cutting into the abdomen from the outside. The goal is to remove the tumor in one piece. If any cancer is left behind or if tests show the tumor might spread, more extensive surgery may be needed.
Before diving into the types of surgeries, let’s understand when your surgeon would recommend another surgical procedure:[16]
- Your surgeon could not remove all of the polyps during your colonoscopy.
- The polyp removed during your colonoscopy had invasive cancer cells.
- You have stage I, II, or III colorectal cancer.
- You have stage IV colorectal cancer that has spread to parts of the liver or lungs.
Now, let’s look at the common types of extensive surgeries:
Your surgeon might remove the part of the colon containing the tumor. This is called a colectomy. How much the surgeon removes depends on the exact position and size of the cancer.
The operations have different names depending on where the cancer is located. Surgery to remove part of the colon is called a hemicolectomy or partial colectomy. Surgery to remove the whole large bowel (colon) is called a total colectomy.[17]
This surgery is for small, early-stage cancers. The surgeon removes the cancer and a border of healthy tissue from the bowel lining. They use a flexible tube called a colonoscope to perform the operation.[18]
Want to know more about surgery as an option for other cancers, such as prostate cancer? Read our blog on Robotic Surgery for Prostate Cancer In India.
Precautions and Preparations Before the Surgery
The below section outlines everything you need to know to prepare for colorectal surgery:[19]
Before your operation, you will one or more of the following tests to ensure you are fit for surgery:
- Blood Tests: To check your overall health and kidney function.
- ECG: To ensure your heart is healthy.
- Lung Function Tests: To check your breathing.
- Echocardiogram: A painless test using sound waves to check your heart.
- Chest X-ray: To ensure your lungs are healthy.
1-2 weeks before your surgery, your healthcare provider will guide you on:
- What to do on the day of your operation.
- When to stop eating and drinking.
- Whether to stop taking any medicines (do not stop unless instructed).
- Arrive 1-2 hours before your surgery time for pre-op preparations.
- A nurse will place an IV in your arm or hand for medications and fluids.
- You'll have a catheter to drain urine from your bladder.
- Your anesthesiologist will discuss the type of anesthesia you'll receive.
- Once asleep, a breathing tube will be placed in your mouth to help you breathe.
Recovery After Colorectal Surgery
Recovery after colorectal surgery for cancer may take 2-6 weeks. Depending on your case, you’d be required to stay at the hospital for 2-4 days after the surgery. Factors affecting the recovery include:[20]
- Type of procedure
- Extent of the procedure
- Your health at the time of surgery
Follow-Up: After treatment, you will have regular follow-up visits with your doctor, depending upon your case.
Side Effects of Colorectal Surgery
As with any surgery, colorectal cancer surgery can also lead to complications. Here are some of the common ones:[21]
- Infections: These can occur at the surgical site, in the chest, or in the urinary tract. Symptoms include fever, pain, redness, and swelling. Antibiotics are usually given to prevent and treat infections.
- Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding during or after surgery. This might require a blood transfusion or additional surgery.
- Leakage: This happens when the new connections in the colon do not hold together properly, leading to leakage. Minor leaks may cause a loss of appetite. On the other hand, larger leaks can lead to severe infections and may require further surgery.
- Blood Clots: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can occur because of reduced mobility after surgery. Blood clots can travel to the lungs, causing issues. Symptoms include swelling, pain, and redness in the leg, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
Most people recover well from colorectal surgery. However, it is important to know about possible complications. Please note that these issues can be managed. If you experience any concerning symptoms, seek medical advice.
Success Rate of Surgery for Colorectal Cancer in India
The success rate of surgery for colorectal cancer in India is 89.7% for Stage I and Stage II cancer. For Stage III cancer, the success rate is 65.5%, and for Stage IV, it is 22.8%. These are 3-year progression-free rates.
Source: Indian Journal of Cancer[22]
Best Hospital for Surgery for Colorectal Cancer in India
JCI-accredited, it is one of the largest private clinics in Delhi and ranks among the top 10 multi-specialty hospitals.
It serves local and international patients, specializing in cancer, bariatric surgery, and cardiology with advanced, European-standard equipment.
- 60+ Years of Experience
- JCI Accredited
- NABH Accredited
- Advanced technology medical oncology like immunotherapy, targeted therapy and chemotherapy
- Leading medical oncology specialists with organ-specific expertise
- Round-the-clock critical care with OPD services, which are designed for an organ-specific approach
With advanced diagnostic units, Max, Saket is a renowned 250-bed hospital in South Delhi.
It has emergency care, Tesla MRI and Cath Labs, and 50 critical beds. It offers Cardiac Sciences, Orthopaedics, Urology, Neurology, Paediatrics, Obstetrics, and Gynaecology.
- NABH Accredited
- 300+ Doctors
- 22+ Departments
- JCI-accredited with high-tech equipment like Da Vinci Robot, Novalis Tx for IMRT/IGRT, Radiosurgery, HIPEC and SRS/SRT for oncology care
- Pioneers in all kinds of cancer treatment, including immunotherapy, hormone therapy and stem cell transplant
- Highly skilled oncology team, including specialists with over 4 decades of experience
Best Specialist for Surgery for Colorectal Cancer in India
Prof (Dr.) K. N. Srivastava( BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital )
Dr. K. N. Srivastava is the Senior Director & Advisor in General and Minimal Access Surgery.
He served as a consultant surgeon to the PM of India.
He trained in laparoscopic surgery in the USA. He also has 15+ years of experience in both laparoscopic and bariatric surgery.
With 60+ publications, he has trained surgeons nationwide for 12 years.
Education
MLN Medical College, Allahabad, India
Memberships
- Endoscopic and Laparoscopic Society of Asia (ELSA)
- OSSI (Obesity Surgery Society of India)
- Asia Pacific Hernia Society
Dr. Surender Kumar Dabas( BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital )
Dr. Surender Kumar Dabas is the Head of the Department of Surgical Oncology and Robotic Surgery at BLK Hospital.
He is also the Vice President of the International Guild of Robotic & Endoscopic Head & Neck Surgery.
A pioneer in Robotic Surgical Oncology in India, Dr. Dabas is also an international mentor for robotic oncological surgeries.
He has performed over 20,000 complex cancer surgeries, including 2,500 robotic procedures.
Education
National Board of Examination, India
Memberships
- Indian Association of Surgical Oncology (IASO)
- Robotic & Endoscopic Head - Neck Surgeons (IGREHNS)
- International Guild of Robotic & Endoscopic Head & Neck Surgery
Why MTC Partners for Colorectal Cancer Surgery?
The hospital boasts highly experienced medical, surgical, and radiation oncology specialists. The Tumor Board includes oncologists having 40+ years of experience. These specialists have international and national associations, including:
- American Society of Transplant and Cellular Therapy
- American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO)
- European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO)
- Indo-American Cancer Association (IACA)
- Society of Cancer Research & National Advisory Committee of Global Cancer Summit
- Indian Medical Association (IMA)
MTC partners utilize cutting-edge technologies, including:
- Da Vinci Xi Robotic System
- Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)
- TrueBeam Linac with Exactrac
- TomoTherapy
- HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy)
These advanced tools allow for precise and effective treatment with minimal impact on healthy tissues.
MTC partners offer a full range of services, from diagnosis to treatment and follow-up care. The Tumor Board reviews each case to formulate the best treatment plan, ensuring personalized and effective care for each patient.
Conclusion
Surgery for colorectal cancer in India offers a high-quality, low-cost choice for those facing this tough diagnosis. Save ~92% compared to US costs while getting care from experienced surgeons and hospitals. Contact us today and begin your treatment journey.
Is Surgery for Colorectal Cancer Safe in India?
Yes, surgery for colorectal cancer is safe in India. However, as with any cancer, there is no guarantee of a 100% cure and always a risk of complications.
- As mentioned above, colorectal cancer surgery in India has a high success rate of 89.7% (For Stage I and Stage II).
- Further, for patients diagnosed with Stage I and II colorectal cancer, the cure rate exceeds 90%.
- Stage III colorectal cancer has a high cure rate of about 70-75%.
- Moreover, 40% of Stage IV patients can be cured (in cases where cancer can be surgically removed). This is achievable even though the disease is at an advanced stage.
Source: Economic Times[23]
FAQs
BLK-Max Hospital and Max Healthcare are among the best colorectal cancer hospitals in India. They have highly experienced specialists in medical, radiation and surgical oncology. Their Tumor Board includes oncologists with over 40 years of experience and affiliations with international and national organizations. They also use advanced technologies like the Da Vinci Xi Robotic System, Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS), TrueBeam Linac with Exactrac, TomoTherapy, and HIPEC.
The success rate of surgery for colorectal cancer in India is 89.7% for Stage I and Stage II cancer. For Stage III cancer, the success rate is 65.5%, and for Stage IV, it is 22.8%. These are 3-year progression-free rates.
Recovery time after colorectal surgery typically ranges from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the procedure and the patient's overall health.
References
- Oxford Academia: Costs for Colon Cancer Treatment Comparing Benefit Types and Care Sources in the US Military Health System
- NCBI: Health system costs for cancer medications and radiation treatment in Ontario for the 4 most common cancers: a retrospective cohort study
- EJSO: Cost of colorectal cancer by treatment type from different health economic perspectives: A systematic review
- American Cancer Society: Radiation Therapy for Colorectal Cancer
- National Cancer Institute: Immunotherapy to Treat Cancer
- WHO: Colorectal cancer
- Medical News Today: What to know about surgery to treat colon cancer
- India hospital network launched to initiate life-saving colon cancer trial: India hospital network launched to initiate life-saving colon cancer trial
- University of Rochester Medical Centre: Colorectal Cancer: Surgery
- Cancer Research UK: Types of surgery for colon cancer
- Indian Journal of Cancer: Management of colon cancer at a tertiary referral center in India - Patterns of presentation, treatment, and survival outcomes
- Economic Times: An increasing number of Indians are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer: Study
