Colon cancer is a serious health condition that affects many people in Singapore. In fact, it’s the most common cancer among Singaporean men and the second most common cancer among Singaporean women. Colon cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow in the colon and form a tumour. Understanding the different types of treatment is important for readers who may be facing a colon cancer diagnosis or know someone who is.
Surgical Treatments
Surgery is often the primary treatment for colon cancer. Two main surgical treatments for colon cancer are colectomy and laparoscopic surgery.
Colectomy
Colectomy is a surgical procedure to remove part or all of the colon. The type of colectomy performed depends on the location and size of the tumour. It may be done through an open incision or using laparoscopic surgery, a minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses a small camera and specialized surgical tools.
Disadvantages and Advantages
Colectomy can effectively remove cancerous tissue, lower recurrence rates, and improve quality of life. However, potential drawbacks include possible complications, side effects, and long-term effects. Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits with you before deciding on a treatment plan.
Laparoscopic Surgery
Laparoscopic surgery is a less invasive surgical procedure to remove part or all of the colon. During this surgery, a laparoscope is inserted through small incisions in the abdomen to view the inside of the body and remove the cancerous tissue. Compared to open surgery, laparoscopic surgery generally results in less pain, a shorter hospital stay, and a quicker recovery time.
Disadvantages and Advantages
Some benefits of laparoscopic surgery include smaller incisions, a quicker recovery time, reduced risk of complications, better visualization, and equivalent cancer outcomes. However, it can take longer to perform, which may not be suitable for all patients or all types of colon cancer, and has the potential for conversion to open surgery. Additionally, it requires specialized training and expertise, which may not be available at all medical facilities. The higher cost of laparoscopic surgery may also be a factor to consider when deciding on a treatment plan.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a treatment for cancer that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy drugs can be given orally or intravenously, travelling through the bloodstream to reach cancer cells throughout the body. For colon cancer treatment, chemotherapy is often used in combination with surgery to prevent the cancer from returning. Common chemotherapy drugs used for colon cancer treatment include fluorouracil (5-FU), capecitabine, and oxaliplatin.
Disadvantages and Advantages
These drugs can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and hair loss. However, medication and lifestyle changes can help manage these side effects.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is a cancer treatment that uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells, and is often used in combination with surgery or chemotherapy to prevent the cancer from returning.
External Beam Radiation Therapy
External beam radiation therapy is a non-invasive cancer treatment that uses high-energy radiation beams to target and kill cancer cells. It’s used as either a primary treatment option for colon cancer, or in combination with other treatments such as surgery or chemotherapy. The treatment is delivered from a machine outside the body and is aimed at the affected area. Each session typically lasts only a few minutes and is administered over several weeks.
Brachytherapy
Brachytherapy is a type of radiation therapy that involves placing a radiation source directly into the tumour site. It’s a highly targeted treatment option for colon cancer, which can reduce the risk of damage to healthy tissues. It requires inserting a small, sealed radiation source into the tumour site, which delivers a high dose of radiation to the cancer cells. The source is typically removed after a few minutes, and the treatment is usually administered over a few sessions.
Disadvantages and Advantages
Common side effects of radiation therapy for colon cancer include skin changes, fatigue, and digestive problems. However, medication and lifestyle changes can help manage these side effects.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy is a type of cancer treatment that focuses on specific molecules that are involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. Unlike chemotherapy, which can affect both cancerous and healthy cells, targeted therapy drugs are designed to only target cancer cells.
There are different types of targeted therapy drugs used for colon cancer treatment, including bevacizumab and cetuximab. These drugs work by blocking the proteins that encourage the growth of cancer cells. Targeted therapy can be used alone or in combination with other cancer treatments. Common side effects of targeted therapy drugs include skin problems, high blood pressure, and diarrhoea.
Disadvantages and Advantages
Advantages of targeted therapy include increased efficacy and fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy. However, targeted therapy may not be effective for all types of colon cancer, can be expensive, and may still cause side effects such as fatigue, nausea, and diarrhoea.
Integrative and Complementary Therapies
Integrative and complementary therapies are nontraditional treatment options that can be used alongside traditional cancer treatments. These therapies can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life for people with colon cancer.
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to alleviate pain and stress. Herbal supplements may also be used to relieve symptoms and improve overall well-being. Massage therapy can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Mind-body techniques, such as meditation and yoga, can help manage stress and improve overall quality of life.
Conclusion
Understanding the different types of treatments for colon cancer is important for patients who may be facing a colon cancer diagnosis. At FeM Surgery, our qualified colon cancer specialists provide compassionate care and support to patients throughout their colon cancer treatment journey. If you or someone you know is facing a colon cancer diagnosis, schedule an appointment with our team to learn more about your treatment options. Cancer recovery can be a long process, but with proper care and attention, patients can successfully manage their treatment and return to a normal, healthy life.
