SEHA Tawam Hospital has successfully performed advanced laparoscopic surgery on an 81-year-old patient with distal rectal cancer and multiple health risks, including obesity, cardiac disease and a history of pacemaker use.
Distal rectal cancer can present significant surgical challenges because of the tumour’s location deep within the pelvis and the need to protect surrounding structures. In complex cases, treatment may also involve creating a temporary or permanent stoma to divert waste through an opening in the abdomen.
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In this case, surgeons used a minimally invasive laparoscopic approach to remove the tumour through small incisions. Despite the patient’s advanced age and medical complexity, the procedure was completed without requiring either a temporary or permanent stoma.
Dr. Mahdi Al Taher, Consultant Gastrointestinal and Oncologic Surgeon at SEHA’s Tawam Hospital, said: “Distal rectal cancer can be one of the most technically demanding conditions in colorectal surgery, particularly in elderly patients with multiple medical risk factors. In this case, a minimally invasive approach allowed us to remove the tumour safely while avoiding the need for a temporary or permanent stoma, supporting the patient’s recovery and quality of life.”
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The successful outcome highlights the importance of personalised surgical planning and coordinated multidisciplinary care when treating complex colorectal cancer in older patients. Minimally invasive techniques can also help reduce surgical trauma, limit incision size and support faster recovery.
The procedure was led by SEHA Tawam Hospital’s colorectal surgical team, with support from anaesthesia, operating room nursing and perioperative care specialists. The case demonstrates the hospital’s capabilities in managing complex colorectal cancer while providing specialised treatment and supporting patient recovery.
