Colon Cancer Treatment

Colon Cancer Treatment - Colon cancer treatment options are largely dependant on a number of factors, including the stage and location of the cancer. Surgery is the most common treatment for colon cancer. It involves removing the cancer, a small margin of surrounding normal tissue, and nearby lymph nodes. A polypectomy is the removal of a small cancerous polyp from the colon with a colonoscope (a slender, lighted tube attached to a video camera). In a laparoscopy (“keyhole” surgery), a laparoscope is inserted through the abdominal wall to remove the cancer. A colon resection (colectomy) involves the surgical excision, or removal, of the cancerous portion(s) of the colon. If the surgeon is not able to reconnect the healthy parts, a temporary or permanent colostomy (an opening in the abdominal wall to allow passage of stool) may be needed. Additional colon cancer treatment options include chemotherapy, radiation therapy and biotherapy.

Previous: Colon Cancer Symptoms

Next: Colony Stimulating Factors

Back to the Cancer Glossary