Vol. 1, Issue No. 2 | July 2026

Cervical cancer most commonly recurs within the pelvis or metastasizes to the lungs, lymph nodes, liver, and bones. However, isolated recurrence in the sigmoid colon is exceptionally rare, posing significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This case report published in the Journal of the European Society of Surgery (JESS) presents a unique case of cervical squamous cell carcinoma recurring in the sigmoid colon just nine months after successful radical surgery, highlighting the importance of vigilant postoperative surveillance and multidisciplinary management in patients with unusual metastatic presentations.

The report describes the case of a 43-year-old woman who initially underwent laparoscopic radical hysterectomy with bilateral pelvic lymphadenectomy for HPV-associated cervical squamous cell carcinoma. During follow-up, advanced MRI, CT imaging, and colonoscopy identified an isolated recurrent tumor infiltrating the sigmoid colon, urinary bladder wall, and left rectus muscle. The patient successfully underwent laparoscopic en bloc resection involving the sigmoid colon, bladder wall, rectus muscle, skin, and subcutaneous tissue, achieving complete (R0) tumor excision. Histopathological examination confirmed metastatic cervical carcinoma involving the full thickness of the colonic wall, and the patient subsequently received adjuvant chemotherapy with a favorable clinical response.

This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing rare gastrointestinal metastases in patients with a history of cervical cancer, particularly when presenting with bowel obstruction or unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms. It also demonstrates the value of comprehensive imaging, endoscopic evaluation, meticulous surgical planning, and multidisciplinary treatment in achieving successful outcomes. The report provides valuable clinical insights for gastrointestinal surgeons, gynecologic oncologists, colorectal surgeons, oncologists, and clinicians managing complex recurrent pelvic malignancies.

Read the Full Article