If you have recently been diagnosed with colorectal cancer, then you need to understand the basics about how different cancer types can present themselves, the common paths of treatment, and the outcomes most patients see. You also need to understand what kinds of questions to ask to get more specific information about your doctor when you go for an appointment, including how the cancer was confirmed and what implications it has on the rest of your healthcare.
CANCER THAT SPREADS
Colorectal cancer is typically detected early if patients avail themselves of all appropriate screening measures as recommended. As a result, it is more common for the diagnosis to be of a precancerous condition such as a polyp. If the cancer has progressed to an actual cancerous stage, then treatment should begin immediately, because colorectal cancer has a tendency to move quickly. When seeking colorectal cancer treatment, it is important to know that the early removal of polyps like adenomas can prevent the development of cancer and avert the need for more invasive treatments down the road, so early screening is the best way to stay as healthy as possible.
IF YOUR DOCTOR FINDS POLYPS
If your doctor finds polyps during an endoscopy or another examination, then there are a few steps that are likely to be taken:
- Removal of the polyps
- Biopsy testing for cancerous or precancerous traits
- Follow-up treatments and testing
Depending on the results of the follow-up treatments, further surgery and other interventions might be necessary after a biopsy confirmation of the cancer is made.
MAKING AN APPOINTMENT
If you are seeking confirmation, a second opinion, or a source for cancer treatment that understands the myriad methods of presentation and complications that cancer can have associated with it, then you need to contact us at the Alaska CyberKnife Center Center to make an appointment.