Treatments
If a patient has colorectal cancer then their treatment will depend on size, where the cancer is located in the colon, and if it has reached other parts of the body. Our team works together with the patient to help find the best treatment and care that meets their needs for the best outcome.
Colorectal cancer care may involve one or more of the treatments below:
- Surgery
- Medicine
- Radiation
Colon & Rectal Surgery
Surgery is usually the main treatment for early colon cancer diagnoses. The type of surgery that will be used depends on what stage the cancer is in and its location.
The Division of Colon & Rectal Surgery at UI Health focuses on the evaluation, diagnosis, and surgical treatment of colorectal cancer and other colon diseases. Our surgeons specialize in minimally invasive techniques for better outcomes and faster recoveries.
Our surgeons work closely with other specialists to determine the best treatment plan for every individual patient and use the newest techniques in the evaluation and treatment of our patients.
Some colon cancers can be removed during a colonoscopy, depending on the stage the cancer is in. In other cases, the surgeon will perform a colectomy to remove all or some of the colon to get the cancer.
Your surgeon and care team will discuss what surgical and treatment plans will meet your needs and be the best fit for you to have the best outcomes.
Click here for more information about Colon & Rectal Surgery.
Medical Oncology
Our team of medical oncologists are specialists in treating gastrointestinal cancers, including those of the colon and rectum. One of their methods for treatment include chemotherapy. The medical oncology team will tailor a treatment plan for your unique needs, including chemotherapy, targeted medication therapies, and intravenous medications. Patients also may be eligible for Clinical Trials.
Radiation Oncology
Radiation oncologists use radiation therapy to kill cancer cells. Radiation treatments are painless and usually last just a few minutes. Radiation is frequently used to treat rectal cancer in combination with chemotherapy. Since radiation is used to kill cancer cells and to shrink tumors, special shields may be used to protect the tissue surrounding the treatment area.
Radiation Oncologist
Matthew Koshy, MD
Advanced Treatments and Techniques
For patients with early-stage rectal cancer, our surgeons offer transanal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS), a technique that allows for rectal preservation and faster recovery, while maintaining excellent bowel function.
For those with more advanced disease, our specialists use total neoadjuvant therapy (TNT), which combines chemotherapy and radiation before surgery. This approach helps shrink tumors, improve outcomes, and in some cases, allows patients to safely avoid surgery through a closely monitored “watch and wait” protocol.
Our multidisciplinary team reviews every case together to create a treatment plan tailored to each patient’s needs and goals.
