Diagnosis and Staging

Diagnosis. Colorectal cancer is diagnosed through colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, barium enema, physical exam and/or testing for the presence of blood in the stool (FOBT).

Staging. Once colon or rectal cancer is diagnosed, treatment is based on the stage and location of the tumor. For patients with colon cancer that has not spread outside of the colon and surrounding lymph nodes, surgery is key. The conventional surgical approach is to do an open colectomy. However, our surgeons are experienced in performing less invasive, laparoscopic colectomies. In these operations, the surgeon removes the colon cancer by inserting a tiny fiber optic camera through a small incision. This procedure cuts patient recovery time in half. In addition to surgery, treatment of colorectal cancer may also include chemotherapy, radiation and biologic therapy (medications to strengthen the immune system).

To schedule a colonoscopy, or to consult our Multidisciplinary GI Clinic on a laparoscopic surgery, ask your primary care physician for a referral or make a self-referral by calling 1-877-LACKS-MI or 616-752-LACK(S).