Expert care, clear answers and support you can trust
A colon cancer evaluation can feel overwhelming. At Marshfield Clinic, you’re not alone. Our surgical, medical and radiation oncology teams work together to diagnose, treat and support you, so you understand your options and can move forward with confidence.
Contact us for care
Call: (866) 520-2510 Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Types of colorectal cancers we treat
Most colorectal cancers are adenocarcinomas that begin in the gland cells lining the colon or rectum. Less common tumors include neuroendocrine (carcinoid) tumors, gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) and lymphomas. Your treatment plan depends on tumor type, location and stage.
Risk factors
Having one or more of the following risk factors does not mean you will develop colorectal cancer, but it may raise your risk:
- Age: risk rises as we get older
- Personal history of colorectal polyps, prior colorectal cancer, or certain other cancers
- Prior radiation to abdomen or pelvis
- Family history of colorectal cancer or adenomatous polyps, especially in a first-degree relative
- Risk increases if diagnosed under age 50 or multiple first-degree relatives affected
- Hereditary syndromes (e.g., Lynch syndrome, FAP)
- Type 2 diabetes
- Inflammatory bowel disease (longstanding ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s colitis)
- Lifestyle factors: excess body weight, low physical activity, smoking, heavy alcohol use, and diets high in red and processed meats
Signs and symptoms
Polyps and early cancers often cause no symptoms, which is why screening matters. More advanced disease can cause:
- Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation)
- Blood in or on the stool (bright red, maroon, or very dark)
- Narrow or pencil-thin stools or a feeling that the bowel doesn’t empty completely
- Abdominal pain, cramps, bloating, or frequent gas
- Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, our team can help you find answers quickly.
Treatments
Your care plan depends on the tumor type and stage, its location (colon vs. rectum) and your overall health. Our specialists coordinate surgery, radiation, systemic therapy and supportive care to deliver the most effective, least invasive treatment possible.
Colon cancer surgery
Many patients undergo breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) or mastectomy depending on the tumor’s location and size. Lymph node evaluation may also be included.
- Colectomy: A portion or the entire colon is taken out to remove the cancer. It can be done in two ways
- Open: A large cut in the abdomen
- Laparoscopic: Minimally invasive involving a few small cuts in the abdomen
- Endoscopic removal (during colonoscopy): During a colonoscopy, a polyp and/or small portion of the inside lining of the colon can be removed
Rectal cancer surgery
- Removing very small cancers from the inside of the rectum: Very small rectal cancers may be removed using a colonoscope or another specialized type of scope inserted through the anus.
- Removing all or part of the rectum: Larger rectal cancers that are far enough away from the anus might be removed in a procedure that removes all or part of the rectum.
- Removing the rectum and anus: For rectal cancers that are located near the anus, it might not be possible to remove the cancer completely without hurting the muscles that control bowel movements.
Radiation therapy
Radiation has a major role in rectal cancer; it's given before surgery to shrink the tumor or after surgery to lower recurrence risk. Techniques vary and can be provided in a variety of sources.
Chemotherapy and medicines
- Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells before surgery to shrink tumors, as well as after surgery to lower recurrence risk, and for metastatic disease
- Monoclonal antibodies are lab-made drugs that target specific proteins on cancer cells; may be used alone or with chemo
- Target therapy blocks genetic changes that can help tumors grow
- Immunotherapy helps your body’s immune system attack and kill cancer cells
Why choose us
- Multi-disciplinary expertise across surgical, medical and radiation oncology coordinated around you
- Advanced techniques minimally invasive surgery, IMRT and organ-preserving approaches when appropriate
- Clear communication and a supportive care team to help you prepare, treat and recover with confidence