Treatment Options by Stage

A patient's specific treatment plan for colon and rectal cancer depends on the stage of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health and physical condition. In general, early stage lung cancers (Stage I, II and III) are most often treated by surgically removing the tumor and late stage colon and rectal cancers (Stage III and IV) are treated by surgically removing the tumor with chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy.

For more advanced tumors, a combination of treatments is used depending on the cancer stage and the patient's overall health. If the cancer has spread to other organs, chemotherapy or supportive care —including possible surgical palliation — are the generally preferred treatment methods.

What is the stage of cancer?

Stage	Likely Treatment Options
Stage 0	Polyp removal (polypectomy) or surgery to remove the tumor.
Stage I	Surgery to remove the tumor. A small amount of tissue around the tumor is usually also removed.
Stage II	Surgery to remove the tumor. A small amount of tissue around the tumor is usually also removed.
Stage III	Surgery to remove the tumor. A small amount of tissue around the tumor is usually also removed. Chemotherapy after surgery. Radiation may also be needed. Clinical trials
Staege IV	Anastomosis, surgery to remove parts of the other affected organs, chemotherapy and/or radiation . Clinical trials

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