GI - Colorectal Cancer

CHI Memorial offers patients screening, diagnostic and treatment options for gastrointestinal (GI) - colorectal cancers. Advanced technologies combined with extensive holistic support services helps patients in treatment for colorectal cancers. Using advanced scoping technologies and a multidisciplinary approach that emphasizes patient comfort and respect, CHI Memorial ensures that our patients receive the most advanced treatment options.
 

Diagnosis & treatment

Using the endoscope, a thin, flexible viewing instrument, our specialists can check the upper and lower portions of the GI tract. Common treatments include the removal of polyps, measures to stop bleeding and biopsies of tissue for examination by a pathologist.

Regular colonoscopies, an internal examination of the colon, beginning at age 45 can prevent colon cancer in many cases. If cancer is identified, cases are reviewed during regularly scheduled tumor conferences in order to determine the best plan for treatment. You benefit from the experience of multiple medical disciplines and extensive expertise.

For other conditions, a procedure known as an ERCP can be done to examine the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts and pancreatic ducts. When a blockage occurs, such as gallstones, it can be cleared and a stent inserted to help prevent recurrence. Other endoscopy services include the bronchoscopy to examine lung tissue for cancer and other diseases, and rectal ultrasound.
 

Technology

Surgeons at CHI Memorial are utilizing superior imaging technology to perform minimally-invasive (or laparoscopic) and robotic-assisted surgeries for the treatment of colorectal cancers. The latest fluoroscopy unit gives physicians excellent live views of the size, shape, movement and function of a patient’s internal organs. It also provides a high degree of flexibility for the patient’s comfort. Benefits to the patient include less pain, a smaller scar and a faster return to activities and normal colon function.

Exceptional imaging capabilities expand the possibilities for looking inside your body without surgery. CHI Memorial offers 3T MRI technology, which uses a stronger magnet for better image quality. The use of endorectal ultrasound helps determine the extent of rectal cancers so that proper treatment can be determined. And for small intestine examinations, the Givens capsule, a pill with a camera inside that is swallowed, allows testing to be done while the patient is awake and mobile.
 

Cancer risk counseling

Cancer risk assessment and genetic testing are available when appropriate for individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer or otogenetic risk factors. 
 

Support at every step

At CHI Memorial Rees Skillern Cancer Institute, anyone diagnosed with cancer has access to a nurse navigator, a designated point of contact who can educate you on the disease process, answer questions, help you prepare physically and emotionally for treatment, provide resources and connect you with other modes of support throughout this journey. These include access to dietitians, clinical social workers, massage therapists, and chaplains who focus on spiritual care and advance care planning.  Call (423) 495-7778 for more information.