Colon Cancer Symptoms and Stages

14. Potential complications

After colorectal surgery, an anastomotic leak can occur where the surgeon reconnected portions of the colon. You might feel abdominal pain, have fever, and other GI symptoms as a result. Seek treatment as soon as possible, as post-operative peritonitis can be life-threatening.

Your bowel might not function properly after surgery, and you'll need to stop eating or drinking and receive nutrition and hydration through a drip temporarily. There could be bleeding, an infection, or clots and swollen legs if you're not moving much. Blood clots can also be life-threatening, so call emergency services if you notice changes in your legs or cough up blood.