When caught early, colon cancer and rectal cancer are highly treatable. Our colorectal cancer care experts tailor a treatment plan for your specific diagnosis, preferences and goals.

Our Approach to Colorectal Cancer Care

Colorectal cancers are some of the most common cancers — and also some of the most curable. More than 90% of people with early-stage colon cancer or rectal cancer are treated successfully.

At Cape Fear Valley Health, you’ll find the same advanced colorectal cancer treatments you’d get at large cancer centers. We offer the convenience of treatment closer to home, from a team that takes a compassionate, personal approach. Your team might include:

  • Gastroenterologists
  • Colorectal surgeons
  • Medical oncologists
  • Radiation oncologists
  • Interventional radiologists
  • Oncology Nurses
  • Physical therapists
  • Occupational therapists
  • Radiation therapist
  • Pharmacists
  • Dietitians

Your Personalized Treatment Plan

Your treatment starts with a conversation — not only about your diagnosis, but also about your treatment preferences and goals. Colorectal cancer can be a difficult subject to talk about, but our team will put you at ease.

Because we offer the full range of colorectal cancer treatments, we can make a plan customized to your unique needs. We focus on delivering effective treatments that minimize side effects and maintain your quality of life. 

Your treatment plan might include one or more of the following:

  • Surgery, including minimally invasive surgery
  • Radiation therapy
  • Chemotherapy
  • Targeted therapy tailored to your specific cancer’s genetic profile
  • Immunotherapy

Why Choose Cape Fear Valley Health for Colorectal Cancer Care

  • We perform most colon cancer and rectal cancer surgeries using minimally invasive techniques, using small incisions and tiny surgical tools. This means less pain, fewer complications and faster recovery. We also offer procedures like transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) for rectal tumors, which require no incisions at all.

  • Twenty years ago, about half of people who had colorectal cancer surgery needed a permanent colostomy. (A colostomy is an opening in the abdomen with a bag attached to collect waste.) Today, our specialists use high-tech imaging and surgical tools that drastically decrease the need for colostomies. And if you do need a colostomy, our ostomy nurse will support all your needs.

  • We’ll test your colorectal tumor to determine its unique genetic characteristics. This helps your oncologist choose the chemotherapy and/or immunotherapy drugs that will target your cancer most effectively. Whatever your plan includes, your team will make sure you know what to expect all the way along.

  • There’s no need to travel for hours to get the best colon and rectal cancer treatment. Even if you have colorectal surgery elsewhere, you can have radiation therapy or chemotherapy here. We offer the same treatments you’ll find at larger cancer centers, in a location that’s more convenient for you.

  • Treatment for colorectal cancer doesn’t only impact you physically. Cancer has emotional and financial effects, too — so we offer a number of support services. Your team includes a financial navigator who will help minimize your out-of-pocket costs. An oncology social worker will connect you with helpful resources.