Colorectal Cancer Treatment

Colorectal cancer is a malignant disease affecting the colon and/or rectum, located in the lower part of the gastrointestinal tract. If colorectal cancer is suspected, it is crucial to promptly seek professional medical care. At Dobrobut Clinic, we provide comprehensive expert services for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, including a multidisciplinary team approach.

Colorectal cancer ranks third worldwide in prevalence among all types of malignant tumors. According to global statistics, it affects approximately 1.9 million people annually and is one of the leading causes of cancer mortality. Early detection and choosing the optimal treatment contribute to increased survival rates.

Causes of Colorectal Cancer

The exact causes of colorectal cancer are not yet fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified. These include age (most commonly affecting people over 50), family history of the disease, a sedentary lifestyle, a diet high in red meat, processed products, obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. Certain genetic disorders, such as familial adenomatous polyposis, also increase the risk.

Symptoms

In the early stages, colorectal cancer may be asymptomatic, but as the disease progresses, the following signs may appear:

• Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation.
• Blood-streaked stool.
• Cramps and/or bloating (excessive gas).
• Feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation.
• Weakness or increased fatigue.
• Unexplained weight loss.

It is important to see a specialist if any of these symptoms are present, especially if risk factors are also present. At Dobrobut, you can undergo a full examination and receive treatment.

Diagnosis

For diagnosing malignant tumors of the colon or rectum, Dobrobut Medical Center conducts various laboratory and instrumental studies:

• Colonoscopy: A thorough endoscopic examination of the large intestine using a camera to detect any abnormalities. The "gold standard" for diagnosing colorectal cancer.
• Biopsy: Collection and microscopic examination of tissue samples from suspicious areas, usually taken during a colonoscopy.
• Imaging Methods: CT and MRI provide detailed images to determine the cancer's stage and location.
• Blood Tests: Clinical and biochemical analyses offer insights into overall health, organ function, and the cancer’s impact on the patient's body.

Treatment

Treatment plans are tailored individually based on the patient's examination results and may include the following approaches:

Surgical Treatment:

• Employed as the primary method for removing colorectal cancer, especially in early stages. Some principal surgical interventions include:

Polypectomy and Local Excision: 

• Conducted during a colonoscopy for early-stage colorectal cancer when small malignant polyps are removed.

Colectomy: 

• Removal of part or all of the colon, with various types depending on tumor location:
  • Partial Colectomy (hemicolectomy or segmental resection): Only the cancerous part of the colon and some surrounding tissue is removed.
  • Total Colectomy: Removes the entire colon, rarer in cancer treatment but necessary for extensive polyps or other conditions.

Proctectomy with Mesorectal Excision: 

• Used for rectal cancer, involves removing the affected colon part and surrounding tissues to ensure all cancer cells are eliminated.

Low Anterior Resection (LAR): 

• Applied for upper rectum cancer, involves removing the tumor and reconnecting the colon with the remaining rectum to preserve normal bowel function.

Abdominoperineal Resection (APR):

• Used for cancers in the lower rectum, involves removing the rectum, anus, and sigmoid colon, concluding with a permanent colostomy for waste removal through an opening in the abdomen.

Laparoscopic Surgery:/strong>

• A minimally invasive approach with small incisions and special instruments, speeding up recovery and reducing complication risks.

After surgical treatment, additional therapies such as chemotherapy or radiation may be necessary, depending on cancer's stage and spread.

Radiation Therapy: 

• Typically used to shrink tumors before surgery or destroy remaining cancer cells post-operation, especially in rectal cancer.

Chemotherapy: 

• Utilizes specific drugs to halt cancer growth and eliminate abnormal cells:
  • Targeted Therapy: Focuses on anomalies in certain cell types.
  • Immunotherapy: A modern method assisting the immune system in effectively combating cancer cells.

Recovery

At Dobrobut, patients remain under close supervision until full recovery, with future monitoring for potential recurrence. Recovery timelines depend on the treatment type and severity of the condition, focusing on restoring bodily functions, detoxification, and pain relief.

Complications

Potential complications after colorectal cancer treatment include infections, bleeding, bowel obstruction, and side effects from chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Regular medical follow-ups are crucial for minimizing these risks.

Prevention

Preventive measures for colorectal cancer include regular screenings (such as colonoscopies starting at age 50 or earlier for high-risk groups), maintaining a healthy weight, regular physical exercise, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, limiting alcohol intake, and abstaining from smoking.