Surgical Treatments

Colorectal Cancer Surgery in Los Angeles

Compassionate, Minimally Invasive, Expert, Organ-Preserving Colorectal Cancer Care

01 overview 02 Symptoms 03 treatments 04 surgery prep 05 faqs

What is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer is a disease in which malignant cells form in the tissues of the large intestine, often developing slowly from precancerous polyps. It is an umbrella term that includes two distinct types based on location: colon cancer, which occurs in the colon, and rectal cancer, which develops in the rectum.

Rectal cancer arises when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the rectum, the final portion of the large intestine. Early detection is critical, as timely intervention can preserve function, improve outcomes, and save lives. If you’re looking for the best rectal cancer treatment in Los Angeles, Dr. Karen Zaghiyan is trusted for her advanced expertise and personalized, minimally invasive approach.

Meanwhile, Colon cancer develops in the colon, the main portion of the large intestine, and can cause bleeding, changes in bowel habits, abdominal discomfort, or unexplained anemia . Evaluation by a highly trained specialist is essential for accurate diagnosis and optimal treatment. When considering your treatment options, Dr. Zaghiyan is considered the best colon cancer specialist in Los Angeles for precise, organ-sparing surgical solutions that protect normal bowel function while effectively removing cancer.

Signs and Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer can present with a variety of symptoms, many of which overlap with less serious conditions. Early evaluation by Dr. Zaghiyan is essential to ensure accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.

Colon Cancer

Changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, abdominal discomfort, anemia, or persistent fatigue.

More About Colon Cancer

Rectal Cancer

Rectal bleeding, changes in stool shape or frequency, tenesmus (feeling of incomplete evacuation), or pelvic pressure.

More About Rectal Cancer

How is Colorectal Cancer Treated?

Dr. Zaghiyan, widely recognized as the best rectal cancer surgeon in Los Angeles and the best colon cancer surgeon in Los Angeles, provides highly specialized care that prioritizes minimally invasive, organ-preserving techniques whenever possible. Her approach includes transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME), transanal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS), robotic rectal cancer surgery, and other organ-preserving strategies. By using these advanced techniques, she aims to maintain sphincter function, reduce recovery time, and deliver the most precise, effective care available.

For patients with colon cancer, Dr. Zaghiyan offers robotic and laparoscopic colectomy procedures, carefully tailored to remove cancer while preserving as much normal bowel function as possible. Her dedication to organ-sparing approaches ensures patients receive the best colon cancer treatment in Los Angeles, with a focus on functional outcomes and quality of life.

Colon Cancer

Patients with colon cancer will undergo preoperative imaging to exclude spread to other organs, followed by surgical resection. Dr. Zaghiyan offers robotic and laparoscopic colectomy procedures, carefully tailored to remove cancer while preserving as much normal bowel function as possible. Her dedication to organ-sparing approaches ensures patients receive the best colon cancer treatment in Los Angeles, with a focus on functional outcomes and quality of life.

Rectal Cancer

Patients with rectal cancer will undergo diagnostic testing, including CT and MRI imaging to determine the location of the tumor, lymph node involvement and possible spread to other organs. Treatment for rectal cancer may involve a combination of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation, and surgery to achieve remission while preserving organ function. As the director of the multidisciplinary tumor board at Cedars Sinai, Dr. Zaghiyan will follow a multidisciplinary approach to determine the best mode and sequence of treatment based on your specific tumor location and biology.

Upfront Surgery

Individuals with early-stage rectal cancer may undergo upfront surgery, often times avoiding chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Certain individuals with very early-stage I rectal cancer may be candidates for TAMIS or Transanal Minimally Invasive Surgery, where the tumor is removed through the rectum in an organ-preserving and nerve-sparing approach.

Alternatively, upfront laparoscopic or robotic low anterior resection may be indicated for larger Stage I or Stage II rectal cancers.

Multimodality Therapy

Individuals with more advanced Stage II or Stage III rectal cancer may benefit from neoadjuvant therapy, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy followed by surgery. When it comes to surgery, Dr. Zaghiyan will utilize various minimally invasive approaches, including robotic and transanal approaches, including TAMIS and intersphincteric proctectomy, to maximize organ preservation, avoid sphincter and nerve injury, and reestablish bowel continuity while minimizing downtime and recovery.

Non-Operative Management or Watch and Wait

Some patients with low rectal cancer may be candidates for chemoradiation and non-operative management or the "watch and wait" approach. Patients achieving complete clinical remission after chemoradiation may opt for non-operative management with close surveillance guided by Dr. Zaghiyan and her team.

What to Expect During Colorectal Cancer Surgery

Before any procedure, Dr. Zaghiyan, the best minimally invasive colorectal surgeon in Los Angeles, thoroughly reviews each patient’s unique situation, explaining the surgical plan and expected recovery. Minimally invasive techniques, whether robotic or transanal, allow many patients to go home sooner, experience less post-operative pain, and recover more quickly than traditional surgery. She remains closely involved throughout recovery, monitoring progress and guiding patients every step of the way.

Before Surgery

Personalized consultation, imaging review, and preparation to optimize safety and outcomes.

During Surgery

Advanced minimally invasive techniques, including robotic, transanal, and organ-preserving approaches, are performed with precision to remove cancer while preserving function. Multimodal analgesia and nerve blocks to minimize postoperative pain.

After Surgery

Close post-operative monitoring, guidance on recovery, and support to restore bowel function and quality of life.

FAQs About Rectal Cancer & Colon Cancer Surgery

Where to Find the Best Colorectal Cancer Surgeon in Los Angeles

Receiving a colorectal cancer diagnosis can turn your world upside down, leaving you anxious, uncertain, and afraid. Having a surgeon who not only brings world-class expertise but also truly listens, guides, and supports you through every step can bring comfort, clarity, and hope.

If you need help from the best rectal cancer surgeon in Los Angeles or the best colon cancer specialist in Los Angeles, Dr. Zaghiyan is an internationally recognized expert and leader in minimally invasive colorectal cancer surgery. Her patients have benefited from her combination of innovative surgical techniques, compassionate care, and a focus on restoring function. Her expertise in transanal, robotic, and organ-preserving approaches ensures precise removal of cancer while maintaining quality of life.

Ready to regain peace of mind and restore your colorectal health with the best colorectal cancer surgeon in Los Angeles?

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Call (310) 289-9224

LA’s Expert Colorectal Specialist

Karen Zaghiyan, MD

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ADDRESS

Karen Zaghiyan, MD 
8737 Beverly Blvd, Suite 101 
Los Angeles, CA 90048

phone

(310) 289-9224

Location

& Hours

hours

MON 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

TUE 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

WED 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

THUR 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

FRI 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.