Colorectal cancer ranks among the most commonly diagnosed cancers in the United States. Radiation therapy is a pivotal treatment modality that targets and eradicates cancer cells while preserving healthy tissues. Treatment plans are tailored to each patient, considering factors such as cancer location, type, stage, and the individual’s overall health. These plans may incorporate surgery and medication alongside radiation therapy to optimize outcomes.
Radiation Therapy for Rectal Cancer
For rectal cancer, a multidisciplinary approach often involves radiation therapy combined with surgery and chemotherapy. Radiation can be administered preoperatively or postoperatively and is frequently paired with low-dose chemotherapy to enhance its efficacy against cancer cells.
Benefits of Radiation Therapy for Rectal Cancer:
Typically, radiation therapy is delivered over several weeks, targeting the rectum and adjacent pelvic areas to address any disseminated cancer cells.
Anal cancers are commonly treated with a combination of radiation therapy and chemotherapy, often without the need for surgery. This approach aims to preserve anal function and normal bowel control. Treatment is administered over several weeks, focusing on the anus and surrounding pelvic and groin regions to eliminate any spread of cancer cells
Radiation therapy is not routinely used for colon cancer. However, in specific cases where the cancer has invaded nearby stationary structures, such as the abdominal wall, radiation can help prevent further spread.
When colorectal or anal cancer metastasizes to other parts of the body, radiation therapy can be instrumental in shrinking or destroying these secondary tumors. This palliative approach helps alleviate symptoms like pain, swelling, and bleeding, and prevents further cancer progression. Advanced techniques, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), allow for precise targeting of small metastatic sites.
If cancer recurs in a previously treated area, a second course of radiation therapy may be necessary. This additional treatment can help shrink the new tumor, inhibit further growth, or prepare it for surgical removal.
While surgery is often essential for treating rectal cancers, anal cancers are typically managed with radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Combining chemotherapy with radiation therapy has been shown to improve cure rates by enhancing the effectiveness of radiation in destroying cancer cells.
Radiation therapy utilizes high-energy X-rays directed at the cancerous area to damage or kill cancer cells. The treatment is meticulously planned to minimize exposure to surrounding healthy tissues, thereby reducing potential side effects. Advancements in radiation technology have significantly increased the precision of treatment delivery, making side effects less common than in the past.
Before initiating radiation therapy, a planning session called simulation is conducted. This involves a CT scan to map the treatment area, and small skin markings (tattoos) may be applied to ensure precise delivery of radiation.
Before initiating radiation therapy, a planning session called simulation is conducted. This involves a CT scan to map the treatment area, and small skin markings (tattoos) may be applied to ensure precise delivery of radiation.
Maintaining your overall health during radiation therapy is crucial. Consider the following tips:
Completing cancer treatment can be challenging. Establishing a support network before and during treatment can help manage side effects and maintain emotional well-being. If additional support is needed, inform your treatment team.
For any questions regarding your diagnosis, treatment options, or managing side effects, please contact our office to schedule a consultation with one of our radiation oncologists.
Dr. O’Connor and Dr. Montes are specialized radiation oncologists dedicated to treating cancer with radiation therapy. Our multidisciplinary team includes radiation therapists, physicists, dosimetrists, oncology nurses, medical assistants, a nurse navigator, and certified nutrition specialists, all working together to provide comprehensive care.
© American Society for Radiation Oncology, 2020
