Last updated: 02/17/2009

The evaluation of patients before pelvic exenteration includes a thorough physical examination with rectal and pelvic examination. Endorectal ultrasound and imaging studies such as computed tomography scans (CT scans) and magnetic resonance...

imaging (MRI) are routinely used to obtain pictures of the abdominal and pelvic areas and evaluate the spread of the cancer.

Ocular ultrasound examination, CT scan, and angiography evaluation (used to image blood vessels) are usually performed to prepare for orbital exenteration.

Some patients begin treatment with chemotherapy and/or radiation before the procedure. Surgery is typically performed approximately six weeks later.

In the case of pelvic exenteration, the patient will be given a bowel prep to cleanse the colon and prepare it for surgery. This procedure is required to lower the level of intestinal bacteria, thus helping to prevent post-surgical infections. Antibiotics are also typically given to help decrease bacteria levels in the bowel.