Diagnosis
If screening tests show polyps or other abnormal areas, your physician will need to find out if it is cancer or a benign condition. The only sure way to know if cancer is present is with a biopsy — the removal and examination of a tissue sample.
For colorectal cancer, biopsies are often performed during a colonoscopy for routine screening. A CT-guided needle biopsy may also be used. During this procedure, the radiologist uses CT scans to guide a biopsy needle to the growth or tumor. The needle is then inserted into the tumor to remove the tissue sample.
If cancer is present in the colon and/or rectum, the stage of cancer needs to be determined in order to decide on the most appropriate treatment plan.
More Information
Newly Diagnosed?
Let us help you sort through your treatment options. Hear from our board-certified colorectal surgeons, watch a video about a cancer survivor’s journey through treatment and access additional information about your condition.
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Network of Locations
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Cancer services are provided at the Arnold Pavilion and at our locations in Ballard, Bellevue, Cherry Hill, Edmonds, Issaquah and Burien (Highline partnership).
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