Partnering with you and your specialists to ensure safe, effective, whole‑person treatment.
Understanding Treatment for Colorectal Cancer (CRC)
When it comes to treating colorectal cancer, a personalized care plan is developed by a multidisciplinary team (MDT) of healthcare professionals. This team typically includes a surgeon, medical oncologist, radiation oncologist, and a gastroenterologist, each bringing their expertise to the table. They often collaborate with other professionals such as physician assistants, oncology nurses, social workers, pharmacists, counselors, and dietitians to ensure well-rounded care.
Common Treatment Options for CRC
Every treatment comes with potential side effects, and your care team will help you weigh the benefits and risks. Your plan will be based on factors such as the stage and grade of your cancer, potential side effects, and your personal preferences and overall health goals. When it comes to treatment options, being well-informed and actively engaged in your care leads to better outcomes. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and express your goals. Your doctor relies on you to share how you’re feeling and what matters most to you. In turn, you can count on your MDT to offer clear, honest guidance and resources. Shared Decision-Making Is Key. Together, you and your care team can build a treatment plan that’s right for you—focused not only on fighting cancer but also on supporting your quality of life.
Surgery
This involves removing the tumor and surrounding tissue. Surgical approaches may include:
Laparoscopic surgery – Minimally invasive with shorter recovery time
Colostomy – Creating a surgical opening for waste removal (may be temporary or permanent)
Ablation procedures – Including radiofrequency ablation or cryoablation for cancer that has spread to the liver or lungs
Radiation Therapy
High-energy X-rays target and destroy cancer cells. Options include:
External beam radiation therapy – Focused radiation directed at the cancer from outside the body
Stereotactic radiation therapy – Highly precise radiation delivery
Intraoperative radiation therapy – Radiation given during surgery
Brachytherapy – Placement of radioactive material in the liver if the cancer has spread.
Chemoradiation
A combination of chemotherapy and radiation, often used before surgery for rectal cancer.
Chemotherapy
Drugs that kill or slow the growth of cancer cells, often used in combination to increase effectiveness.
Immunotherapy
Boosts the body’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively.
Targeted Therapy
Focuses on specific genes, proteins, or the tumor environment that contribute to cancer growth; limiting damage to healthy tissues.
Detailed information on each of these treatment options can be found on the American Society of Clinical Oncology and American Cancer Society websites.