Colorectal cancer treatment

A diagnosis of colorectal cancer can feel overwhelming. But at Advocate Health Care, we combine compassionate care with a full range of treatments to help you fight colon cancer with confidence.

Determining the best treatment plan for colorectal cancer is based on many factors, including the location and stage of the tumor, whether it has spread to surrounding organs and the patient's personal health and preferences. Our multi-disciplinary team creates a comprehensive, individualized treatment plan for each patient.

Colon cancer treatments we offer

Surgery is the most common colon cancer treatment, in which the cancer and nearby lymph nodes are removed. At Advocate, our surgeons prefer using minimally invasive surgery options with either the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System or a laparoscopic instrument. Patients generally heal more quickly from these surgeries, which use very small incisions in the abdomen, resulting in:

• Less pain
• Minimal blood loss
• Less scaring
• Fewer complications
• A shorter hospital stay
• Faster recovery

In later stages of colorectal cancer, open surgery may be used to remove the tumor and parts of the colon or rectum. During surgery, the surgeon can examine the rest of the intestine, liver and other organs for signs of cancer.

Radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy also may be recommended to treat colorectal cancer, as well as newer options like immunotherapy, which takes advantage of the patient's own immune system to help fight and interfere with the growth and spread of cancer cells.

Need a second opinion?

One of our experts can confirm a diagnosis, review your treatment plan and explore alternate options, if needed.

Learn about our Second Opinion Program