Washington University colon and rectal cancer specialists provide the highest level of care for people with colorectal cancer. Our multidisciplinary care team comprises expert surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, nurses and other specialists who all work together to find the best colorectal cancer treatment plans for every patient.

Colon and rectal cancer treatment approaches

Because colon and rectal cancers begin in different parts of the body, they require different treatment approaches.

The first line of treatment for colon cancer is usually surgery to remove the tumor and the surrounding lymph nodes. Depending on the stage of the cancer, some patients may also receive chemotherapy or immunotherapy.

Surgery is also the main treatment for rectal cancer. Washington University colon and rectal surgeons have pioneered surgical techniques that allow most patients to be treated successfully without a colostomy. Our experts are also leaders in minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer, which uses smaller incisions than traditional open surgery and usually leads to fewer complications, a shorter hospital stay and a faster recovery.