Cancer Treatment
Colon Cancer
The primary treatment for colon cancer is surgery. The part of the large bowel with cancer is removed, along with surrounding lymph nodes. The remaining bowel is joined together. A colostomy, which is a surgically created opening from the colon to the outside of the body to collect the stool, is usually temporary. If a more advanced cancer is diagnosed, then chemotherapy is usually warranted after surgery.
Rectal Cancer
Rectal cancer involves a much more comprehensive approach because it has a higher chance of recurrence. Most rectal cancers (except for very early cancers) require radiation and chemotherapy before surgery in order to shrink the tumor. Once this treatment is completed, the patient proceeds to surgery. With new state-of-the-art techniques, most patients do not require a permanent ostomy or bag. Many patients require a temporary ostomy for about 8 weeks to allow the rectum to heal.
Follow-up Care
Follow-up care with the surgeon, gastroenterologist and oncologist is important. The most common time a cancer recurs is within the first two years following diagnosis and treatment. Periodic checkups may include a physical exam, blood tests, colonoscopy, CT scan or PET scan.
