Successful resection of a sigmoid colon cancer at the 29th week of gestation

Abstract

A 32-year-old pregnant woman was referred to our hospital due to a right ovarian tumor at the 22^nd week of gestation. Right oophorectomy was performed by obstetricians after histopathological findings revealed a suspected metastatic adenocarcinoma from gastrointestinal malignancy. Colonoscopy indicated an advanced sigmoid colon cancer. Sigmoidectomy with colostomy was performed at the 29^th week of gestation without disturbing pregnancy. At the 32^nd week of gestation, cesarean delivery was performed followed by total abdominal hysterectomy, complete regional lymph node dissection of the sigmoid colon, and closure of the colostomy. Postoperative course of the patient and the infant were uneventful. Although colorectal cancer is uncommon during pregnancy, its prognosis is reported to be very poor for both the patient and fetus. We found that adequate cooperation between surgeons and obstetricians for reaching a concensus on the surgical treatment without delay is necessary for a successful outcome.