Unit 12.2 - Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal Cancer

Mix of genetic and environmental factors can cause cells in the lining of the bowel to turn cancerous.

Most colon cancers arise from polyps (small bulges of abnormal cells from bowel wall).

Signs & Symptoms

No symptoms in early stages; vary depending on cancer location.

Rectum

• blood in stool

• change in bowel habits

• rectal discomfort

Descending Colon

• pain

• change in bowel habits

• blood in stool

• obstruction

Transverse Colon

• pain

• change in bowel habits

• obstruction

• anemia

Ascending Colon

• pain

• mass

• change in bowel habits

• anemia

Non-Surgical Management

Chemotherapy

• Can be done pre-op, post-op, or for palliative purposes.

Radiation Therapy

• Most common for rectal cancer but can be used for colon and rectal.

• Can be done pre-op, post-op, or for palliative purposes.

Surgical Management

Polypectomy

• Removal of polyps.

• Early detection and removal key to eliminating the risk.

• Done if cancer in early stages (i.e., only on colon surface).

Ostomy Surgery

• Bowel is brought through an opening in the abdominal wall.

• The higher up the colostomy, the more liquid the stool since the colon absorbs water.

• Can be temporary or permanent.

• Types:

  • Ascending Colostomy - done for right sided tumors.

  • Descending Colostomy - done for left sided tumors.

  • Transverse (Double-Barell) Colostomy - used in emergencies because it can be created quickly.

  • Sigmoid Colostomy - done for rectal tumors.