INFO & BLOG
About diagnosis, treatment and recovery
How is my treatment decided in rectal cancer?
The decision is the multidisciplinary oncology council’s joint decision based on tumor stage, distance to the anus and molecular profile. In particular, the treatment sequence is determined here.
Why radiotherapy/chemotherapy first, then surgery?
In locally advanced rectal cancer, neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy before surgery shrinks the tumor, increases the chance of sphincter-preserving surgery and reduces local recurrence.
Will I need a permanent colostomy (bag)?
In most patients the goal is to preserve the anal sphincter; if the tumor is sufficiently far from the anus, permanent colostomy is avoided with robotic low anterior resection. The decision is made in the council.
What is TME (total mesorectal excision)?
It is the gold standard of rectal surgery; the mesorectum, with its lymph nodes, is removed intact. Robotic surgery enables this with precision in the narrow pelvis.
Is watch-and-wait right for me?
In selected patients with a complete response to neoadjuvant therapy, close surveillance instead of surgery may be an option; eligibility is evaluated in the council and requires close follow-up.
What is the advantage of robotic over open surgery?
Better visualization and nerve preservation in the narrow pelvis; protection of urinary and sexual function, less bleeding, small incisions and fast recovery.
Will my sexual and urinary function be affected?
Robotic nerve-sparing TME aims to preserve the pelvic nerves responsible for these functions; the risk is evaluated case by case in the council.
Which documents are needed for a second opinion?
Colonoscopy and biopsy/pathology report, high-resolution pelvic MR, PET-CT if available, blood tests and prior treatment summaries.
There is colorectal cancer in my family; do I need genetic testing?
With a family history, genetic testing and early screening for Lynch syndrome/FAP are recommended; genetic counseling is provided.
I am coming from abroad; how does the process work?
Your file is evaluated remotely; neoadjuvant therapy and surgery are planned with visa, transfer, accommodation and medical interpreter support.