What to Expect During Colon Cancer Treatment

When diagnosed with colon cancer, it can feel overwhelming, but understanding what to expect during treatment can help you navigate this journey. As a leading Los Angeles Colon Cancer Specialist, Dr. Armen Gregorian offers compassionate care and expertise to ensure that every patient receives the best treatment possible.

Colon cancer treatment typically involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and sometimes targeted therapies or immunotherapy, depending on the stage of cancer and individual patient factors. Below is an overview of what you can expect during each phase of treatment.

1. Diagnosis and Staging

Before starting treatment, your Los Angeles Colon Cancer Specialist will thoroughly assess the cancer’s stage and type. This involves a series of diagnostic tests, including:

• Colonoscopy : A procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera is used to view the inside of your colon. During the colonoscopy, biopsies may be taken for analysis.
• CT or MRI Scans : Imaging tests help determine if cancer has spread to other organs.
• Blood Tests : These may be done to check for markers that suggest cancer and monitor overall health.

After these tests, your doctor will discuss the stage of cancer, which plays a crucial role in determining the best treatment options.

2. Surgery: The First Line of Treatment

For many colon cancer patients, surgery is the first step in treatment. The goal of surgery is to remove the cancerous tumor and any surrounding tissue that may have been affected. Depending on the location and size of the tumor, your Los Angeles Colon Cancer Specialist will perform one of the following procedures:

• Partial Colectomy : In this surgery, part of the colon is removed, including the tumor and a margin of healthy tissue around it.
• Total Colectomy : In some cases, the entire colon may need to be removed, and a colostomy may be performed to create an opening for waste to exit the body.

After surgery, you may need to stay in the hospital for a few days to recover, and your doctor will monitor you for any complications.

3. Chemotherapy: Targeting Cancer Cells

Chemotherapy is often used after surgery, especially if the cancer has spread to lymph nodes or other organs. It uses drugs to target and kill cancer cells. Your Los Angeles Colon Cancer Specialist will tailor a chemotherapy regimen based on your diagnosis and health.

Chemotherapy can be administered in various ways:

• Intravenously (IV) : Most commonly, chemotherapy drugs are given through an IV, either as an outpatient procedure or in a hospital.
• Oral Chemotherapy : Some chemotherapy drugs can be taken in pill form.
• Adjuvant Chemotherapy : In this approach, chemotherapy is given after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells.

While chemotherapy can be effective, it may also come with side effects, such as fatigue, nausea, hair loss, and changes in appetite. Dr. Gregorian will work closely with you to manage these side effects and maintain your quality of life during treatment.

4. Radiation Therapy: Targeting Tumors

Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to shrink tumors and kill cancer cells. It is typically used in specific situations, such as when the cancer is located in the rectum or if the tumor is too large for surgery.

Radiation therapy is often combined with chemotherapy, and treatment sessions usually occur daily over several weeks. Your Los Angeles Colon Cancer Specialist will carefully plan your radiation treatments to target cancerous areas while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

5. Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy

In some cases, colon cancer may respond to newer treatment options like targeted therapies or immunotherapy . These treatments focus on specific molecules involved in the growth of cancer cells.

• Targeted Therapy : This treatment targets specific genes or proteins that allow cancer cells to grow and divide. It is typically used for advanced colon cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.
• Immunotherapy : This therapy boosts your immune system to recognize and fight cancer cells. It is often used for patients with specific genetic mutations in the cancer cells.

Both therapies are relatively new and are typically used in clinical trials or when traditional treatments are ineffective.

6. Ongoing Monitoring and Follow-Up Care

After completing your initial treatment plan, your Los Angeles Colon Cancer Specialist will monitor your recovery through regular follow-up appointments. These visits will likely include:

• Physical Examinations : Regular check-ups to assess your overall health and any signs of recurrence.
• Blood Tests : To monitor cancer markers and overall health.
• Imaging Tests : To check for signs of cancer returning or spreading.

Follow-up care is crucial in the early detection of any cancer recurrence, allowing for timely intervention if necessary.

7. Support During Treatment

Going through cancer treatment is challenging, both physically and emotionally. Dr. Gregorian and his team emphasize holistic care, providing support for the emotional and psychological aspects of cancer treatment. Support groups, counseling, and nutrition therapy can help improve your well-being throughout the process.

Conclusion

Colon cancer treatment is a multi-faceted process that varies depending on the individual’s diagnosis, health, and response to treatments. With the expertise of a Los Angeles Colon Cancer Specialist like Dr. Armen Gregorian, you can expect a personalized treatment plan to improve your outcomes and quality of life. The journey may seem daunting, but with the right medical care and support, colon cancer is a condition that can be effectively managed. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with colon cancer, contact Armen Gregorian, MD, for a consultation and learn how you can take the first step toward healing. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call Armen Gregorian, MD, at (818) 847-7067 , your trusted Los Angeles Colon Cancer Specialist, today!