Colorectal Cancer Treatment

Colorectal cancer treatment options typically include surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation therapy. Surgery is the most common form of treatment for colorectal cancer. Healthcare professionals (such as gastroenterologists) consider factors such as the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health, when making recommendations about colorectal cancer treatment. In most cases, there is enough time for patients to get a second opinion about their diagnosis and treatment.

 

Colorectal Cancer Treatment: An Overview

Many people with colorectal cancer want to take an active part in making decisions about their medical care. They want to learn all they can about the disease and their colorectal cancer treatment choices. However, shock and stress after the diagnosis can make it hard to think of everything they want to ask the doctor. It often helps to make a list of questions before an appointment.
 
To help remember what the doctor says, people may take notes or ask if they may use a tape recorder. When they talk to the doctor, some people also want to have a family member or friend with them to take part in the discussion, to take notes, or just to listen.
 
The doctor may refer a person with colorectal cancer to a specialist, or the patient may ask for a referral. Specialists who treat colorectal cancer include the following:
 
  • Gastroenterologists (doctors who specialize in diseases of the digestive system)
  • Surgeons
  • Medical oncologists
  • Radiation oncologists.
 
(Colorectal Cancer Treatment Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD