When you’re first diagnosed with colorectal cancer, you’re going to be filled with questions for your colorectal surgeon. This is perfectly understandable, and luckily there is a wealth of information available to support you on this journey! Here are 5 of the most common post-diagnosis questions patients ask, with answers from a leading colorectal surgeon in Melbourne. And remember, if it makes you more comfortable with any aspect of your treatment, you can always take your case to a female surgeon.
#1 – Can colorectal cancer be cured?
Colorectal cancer is one of the most treatable cancers, and often it can be cured completely, especially in its earlier stages. With access to colorectal cancer surgery, around 50% of patients are cured. According to SEER stages, localised cancer has a 5-year survival rate of 91%, with regional cancers at a 72% 5-year survival rate, and distant cancers at 14%.
#2 – Can colon cancer come back after 5 years?
For most colon cancer patients, the cancer does not reoccur. However, for around 40% of patients who undergo colorectal cancer surgery, the cancer may reoccur in 3-5 years, appearing in the colon, rectum, liver, or lungs. This makes it essential that all colorectal cancer patients keep seeing their colorectal surgeon in Melbourne on a regular basis, that you stay aware of potential symptoms, and follow all guidelines on keeping your body and colon healthy.
#3 – What is the primary treatment for colorectal cancer?
Colorectal surgery is the main treatment for this cancer. However, depending on your case and how advanced the cancer is, your colorectal surgeon in Melbourne may recommend a combination of surgery with other treatments like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted drug therapy, and immunotherapy.
#4 – At what stage will chemotherapy be used?
Chemotherapy is a very powerful medical treatment, and it puts your body through a huge amount of strain while it’s fighting the cancer. Because of this, and because the surgery is so effective, your colorectal surgeon will usually advise just having colorectal cancer surgery if you are stage one or perhaps even stage two. Generally, chemotherapy is only advised in certain cases where the cancer is advanced (stage three or above) and where your colorectal surgeon feels it will be a safe and effective treatment.
#5 – Do I need colostomy bag after colon cancer surgery?
In most cases, the cancerous tumour and tissue can be removed without the need for a colostomy. In very serious cases where the bowel must be resected or the rectum is compromised, then your colorectal surgeon will create a stoma (opening in the torso with a connection to the colon) to pass waste. Depending on the case, a colostomy bag can be temporary or permanent.
Got more questions? Speak to a leading female surgeon today
Colon cancer is a scary diagnosis and it’s essential that you feel comfortable and welcome to express any concerns or questions you have about your case. For many people, it can feel easier to talk these issues over with an experienced female surgeon rather than a male colorectal surgeon.
As an experienced female surgeon specialising in colorectal conditions, Dr Naseem has performed colorectal cancer surgeries for many years, working to ensure that patients are kept as comfortable as possible and given access to the most innovative treatments available. Contact us to schedule your appointment today.
Dr Naseem 