Symptoms/Solutions

Recommendations for Colon Cancer Prevention

• Schedule regular screenings
• Eat more fiber and less fat
• Exercise regularly
• Quit smoking
• Limit or avoid alcohol
• Maintain a healthy weight

Women should discuss hormone replacement therapy options with either a gynecologist or family physician.

Colon cancer is preventable because it can develop without any symptoms.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States, claiming over 56,000 lives each year. Screening tests can find polyps (small growths that can become cancerous over time). Colon polyps can be visualized and removed during a colonoscopy. Polyp removal can prevent colon cancer.

Hemorrhoid Treatments - Performed In Office
Dr. Cutler performs over 400 infrared photocoagulation (IRC) procedures each year. This treatment is performed in the office. There is no preparation for this procedure, and immediately following it you may resume normal daily activities. There are minimal risks involved with this procedure, since Dr. Cutler uses a pulsing technique. This method of removal treats the hemorrhoids gradually, reducing tissue damage. Depending on the severity of your hemorrhoids, it may take 3-5 treatments in office. Not everyone is a candidate for this procedure.

Dr. Cutler is a specialist in diagnosing and treating diseases of the rectum and colon. On your initial visit, he will discuss your symptoms and what he visualizes as your problem, along with your options for treatment.

When Should you Have a Colon Screening?

• If you are over the age of 40 and have never been screened, or it has been more than a year since your last screening, call now to make an appointment.
• Anyone with a history of colon disease, cancer, polyps, or chronic intestinal problems.
• Anyone over the age of 35 with a family history of colon disease, cancer, polyps, or chronic intestinal problems.
• Dr. Cutler will be able to review the screening process with you and determine which procedures will benefit you best for assessing your risk.

Tests and Procedures
A Hemoccult® tests a stool sample for microscopic blood in the stool. You will be provided a test kit to take home and return at your next visit.

A sigmoidoscopy (performed in the office) allows Dr. Cutler to see the inside walls of the lower half (approximately 60 cm) of the colon through a flexible lighted sigmoidoscope. You will need to use 1-2 Fleet's® enemas 1-½ hour before this procedure.

Preparation for a Colonoscopy
The day before the colonoscopy, you will need to follow a clear liquid diet, take a few tablets, and drink a solution to assist in evacuating your colon. You should arrive at the outpatient facility approximately 1 hour before your procedure to complete paperwork and be assessed by the nurse and anesthesiologist. You will be connected to an IV.

During the Colonoscopy
This is a painless procedure in which you will be given an IV sedation to allow you to sleep through the procedure (you will still breathe on your own - this is not general anesthesia). The colonoscopy will take approximately ½ hour, during which time Dr. Cutler will inspect the internal walls of the entire colon for any abnormalities - including colon polyps - by looking through a flexible lighted colonoscope. Biopsies may be taken and colon polyps removed and sent to the pathology lab during this procedure. You will be monitored for approximately 1 hour. You may need to follow a special diet following the colonoscopy to prevent irritation to the area of the biopsy. Your next visit will be scheduled in 10-14 days to review your pathology results.

Should you require surgical intervention or a colonoscopy, Dr. Cutler performs these procedures at three surgery centers for your convenience:

• North County Surgery Center in Palm Beach Gardens
• Palm Beach Lakes Surgery Center in West Palm Beach
• Martin Memorial Surgery Center in Stuart

All procedures are performed with the assistance of an anesthesiologist.

You should report any of the following symptoms to your physician immediately:

• Rectal Bleeding
• Bright Red Blood in the Stool
  (While either of the latter may be related to hemorrhoids, they may also indicate a more serious condition.)
• Change in Stool Size
• Change in Bowel Habits (Diarrhea or Constipation)
• Abdominal Pains
• Unexplained Weight Loss
• Unusual Lack of Energy (This may possibly be related to anemia or blood loss caused by colon polyps or another condition.)