Shawn Ryan’s colorectal cancer was discovered during a routine colonoscopy at a stage where an advanced laparoscopic procedure could be used to remove it, sparing the New Jersey man from needing a colostomy.  I find that people’s biggest fear about the G.I. tract in general is the need for a colostomy. It is important to understand that most colon surgeries can be performed without a colostomy, even laparoscopically in the hands of a skilled surgeon. This means the time to recovery, and the extent of complications is vastly diminished. A colostomy is generally required during an emergency procedure, when there is complete blockage, or the bowel has perforated completely. All of these can be avoided by early detection, staging, and thorough preoperative assessment. See the personal success story of one patient below