Colorectal Cancer
Other Treatment
Radiation therapy uses X-rays to destroy colorectal cancer cells and shrink tumours. It is often used to treat rectal cancer, usually combined with surgery. It is used less often to treat colon cancer. It may also be combined with chemotherapy.
Other Treatment Choices
Radiation may be given:
- Externally, using a machine outside the body that points a beam of radiation at the tumour.
- Internally, by placing tiny radioactive "seeds" next to or into the cancer.
Compared to surgery alone, radiation given before surgery may reduce the risk that rectal cancer will return and may help you live longer.10
What To Think About
Clinical trials are designed to find better ways to treat people with cancer and are based on the most current information. Some people who meet the criteria for participation choose to enrol in such clinical trials.
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| Author: | Douglas Dana Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH | Last Updated: March 19, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology Arvydas D. Vanagunas, MD - Gastroenterology | |
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