What is the preferred surgical approach for splenic flexure colon cancer?

The preferred surgical approach for splenic flexure colon cancer is the extended right hemicolectomy with ileo-colic anastomosis. This technique is chosen because the splenic flexure is located between the descending colon and the transverse colon, and a significant portion of the right colon often needs to be resected to achieve adequate oncological clearance.

In an extended right hemicolectomy, the surgeon removes not only the section of the colon containing the tumor but also the adjacent lymphatic tissues that may harbor cancer cells. This extensive resection minimizes the risk of local recurrence and provides a better overall prognosis for the patient. The ileo-colic anastomosis helps to restore bowel continuity after the removal of portions of the colon while preserving bowel function.

Other options presented may not adequately address the surgical needs of patients with splenic flexure colon cancer. For instance, a left hemicolectomy primarily targets the left side of the colon and may not include necessary segments associated with a splenic flexure tumor. Similarly, a transverse colectomy, while it might provide an approach, does not offer the same comprehensive oncological management that an extended right hemicolectomy does. Emergency colectomy is generally reserved for acute situations where