For colon cancer, how does a doctor decide on treatment options?

Doctor's Answers 1

Treatment for a patient with colorectal cancer is based on the presumed stage of the disease. Make sure you speak to a colorectal surgeon as surgery is the cornerstone of your treatment.

You will need to undergo blood tests and a full-body CT scan as the surgeon will need to determine whether the cancer has spread to other organs (stage 4 disease), or is too large for a safe complete cancer resection. The blood tests done will also include tests to determine your risks for surgery. Your surgeon will then discuss the options with you. He/she may need to coordinate your care with a medical oncologist as well.

Surgery isn't always the first step of treatment. The aim of treatment is to cure whenever possible. If cure is not possible, the aim is usually to maintain your quality of life for as long as possible. You can learn more by referring to the link below [1].


Reference:

1. Colorectal Cancer - Types of Treatment. Cancer.Net. https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/colorectal-cancer/types-treatment. Published June 26, 2012. Accessed January 17, 2020. ‌

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