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Colon Cancer

How to treat Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the large intestine (colon) and can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. Dr. Minicozzi offers a comprehensive approach to colon cancer treatment, combining advanced diagnostic tools, cutting-edge surgical techniques, and personalized care. Treatment for colon cancer can vary based on the cancer’s stage, location, and the patient’s overall health.

Early diagnosis and timely intervention are key to improving treatment outcomes. Dr. Minicozzi works closely with each patient to develop a customized treatment plan, whether it involves surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of methods. Our goal is to provide effective treatment while maintaining the highest quality of life for our patients.

Symptoms

Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Colon cancer can develop without showing early symptoms, which is why regular screenings are crucial. However, as the disease progresses, some of the common symptoms that may indicate colon cancer include

Changes in bowel habits
Blood in stool or rectal bleeding
Abdominal discomfort such as cramping or bloating
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue or weakness
Feeling that the bowel does not empty completely after a bowel movement
Nausea or vomiting (in more advanced stages)

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

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How We Can Treat Colon Cancer


At Dr. Minicozzi’s practice, we offer a multi-faceted approach to colon cancer treatment, personalized to meet each patient’s unique needs. The treatment process may include:

1. Diagnosis

Early detection is vital for successful treatment. Dr. Minicozzi uses state-of-the-art diagnostic methods to confirm the presence of colon cancer, including:

  • Colonoscopy: The primary screening method for colon cancer, where a flexible tube with a camera examines the colon for abnormal growths or tumors.
  • Imaging Tests (CT, MRI, PET CT ): To assess the size of the tumor and determine whether cancer has spread to other organs.
  • Biopsy: A small tissue sample taken during a colonoscopy to confirm if cancer cells are present.
2. Surgery

For many patients, surgery is the primary treatment. Dr. Minicozzi specializes in minimally invasive surgery, such as laparoscopic and robotic-assisted techniques, which involve smaller incisions, leading to faster recovery times and reduced pain. Surgical options include:

  • Colectomy: Removal of part or all of the colon, depending on the extent of cancer.
    • Right hemicolectomy: A right hemicolectomy is a procedure to remove the right-hand portion of the colon, including the caecum, ascending colon and a portion of the transverse colon.
    • Left hemicolectomy: A left hemicolectomy removes the left-hand portion of the colon, resecting the mid-transverse colon to the descending/sigmoid junction.
    • Sigmoid colectomy: Colon cancer surgery aims to remove the diseased part of the bowel and this procedure removes the sigmoid portion, which lies on the left-hand side of the abdomen. The remaining colon is then joined to the top of the rectum.
  • Robotic/Laparoscopic Surgery: A minimally invasive surgery that uses smaller incisions for quicker healing.
  • Colostomy or Ileostomy: In cases where a part of colon is removed, a stoma (opening) may be created for waste elimination.
3. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. It may be used before surgery to shrink tumors or after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells. It may also be used as a primary treatment for advanced-stage cancer.
4. Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is sometimes used to treat rectal cancer or to reduce the size of tumors before surgery. It can also help treat cancer that cannot be completely removed through surgery.
5. Targeted Therapy & Immunotherapy
Targeted therapies focus on specific molecules involved in cancer growth. Immunotherapy boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer more effectively. These treatments may be recommended for advanced or metastatic colon cancer.
6. Post-Treatment Support

After treatment, Dr. Minicozzi provides thorough post-operative care, including follow-up visits to monitor for recurrence, manage any side effects, and ensure ongoing health and wellness.

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is colon cancer?
Colon cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the large intestine (colon). It can develop slowly over many years and may start as small growths called polyps, which can become cancerous over time.
The symptoms of colon cancer can vary. Common signs include changes in bowel habits, blood in stool, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss. However, some people with colon cancer experience no symptoms, which is why regular screening is important, especially for individuals over 50 or those with a family history of the disease.
Treatment for colon cancer often involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and, in some cases, targeted therapies or immunotherapy. Dr. Minicozzi will determine the best approach based on the cancer’s stage and location.
Surgery is typically the primary treatment for colon cancer, but not all patients will require the same type of surgery. In some cases, a combination of surgery and other treatments, like chemotherapy or radiation, may be necessary.
Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery performed. Minimally invasive surgeries often result in faster recovery times. Dr. Minicozzi will provide specific instructions on post-surgery care to help you recover as smoothly and quickly as possible.
Regular screening is essential for early detection, especially for those over 50 or with a family history of colon cancer. Eating a balanced diet, staying active, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol intake can help lower your risk.
If you experience any symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, abdominal discomfort, or blood in your stool, schedule an appointment with Dr. Minicozzi for evaluation and further testing. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment.

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Ms. Annamaria Minicozzi

With a patient-first approach, Dr. Minicozzi ensures accurate diagnosis, effective treatments, and improved quality of life for every individual.
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