Colon Cancer Treatment & Individualized Care

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If you've recently received a colon, rectal, or anal cancer diagnosis, your world may feel like it's spinning. It can be scary figuring out what to do next. At UVA Health, we're here to help you navigate the diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer.

Why Choose UVA Health for Colon Cancer Treatment

U.S. News & World Report has given our colon cancer surgery procedures the highest possible performance rating. And we house the only anal clinic in the region, bringing effective anal cancer treatment close to home.

Our Cancer Center is Virginia's first Comprehensive Cancer Center designated by the National Cancer Institute. Learn what this NCI designation means for you.

At UVA Health, you'll find individualized care for colon cancer. We offer the latest treatments. We can remove tumors using robotics and small cameras. These methods mean:

  • Smaller cuts
  • Less pain
  • Faster recovery

Treatment may include one or more of the following options:

  • Colorectal Surgery
    • Polypectomy and local excision 
    • Partial colectomy 
    • Laparoscopic-assisted colectomy 
    • Total colectomy 
  • Radiation therapy
  • Chemotherapy
  • Targeted therapy

Easier Recovery After Colon Cancer Treatment

We also offer a specialized recovery program. It's called Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS). ERAS puts you and your family at the center of the care team, so you can return to your normal life as quickly as possible.

Learn more about 2 simple things you can do to recover easier after surgery for colon or rectal cancer.

Colorectal Cancer Treatment Options

Charles Friel, MD, and Tracy Hedrick, MD, are two of our board-certified colon and rectal surgeons. They describe the full range of surgical care available at UVA for diseases of the anus, colon and rectum, including cancer. View Colorectal Cancer Treatment transcript.

Colon Cancer Diagnosis

We use different tests to screen for colorectal cancer, including:

We may use other tests to confirm the presence of colon cancer. And to see if the cancer has spread:

  • Biopsy
  • Polypectomy
  • CT scan
  • PET scan
  • Transrectal ultrasound
  • Blood tests to look for anemia and cancer markers in the blood