Colon & Rectal Cancer Treatmentin Los Angeles

Overall survival rate at 5 years post-treatment of rectal cancer increased with the addition of hyperthermia.

A Common Cancer

Nationwide, there are over 125,000 new cases and approximately 50,000 deaths each year. The incidence rate of new cases has decreased significantly due to several factors like earlier screening and detection. As a result of this and improved treatment options, the death rate from colorectal cancer in the United States has decreased by about 25%.

About Colon, Rectal and Anal Cancer

Cancer of the large bowel is collectively called colorectal cancer, and includes cancer of the colon, rectum and anus. Most colorectal cancers arise from polyps, specifically adenomatous polyps. A polyp is a mass of abnormal cells on the surface of the colon or rectum. Polyps can be classified as non-cancerous such as neoplastic hamartoma, a hyperplastic polyp, or an adenomatous polyp.

Up to 25% of patients with colorectal cancer have a family history of the disease, suggesting a hereditary predisposition. Other factors like diet, smoking, and diseases like inflammatory bowel disease increases the risk of developing colorectal cancer.

Colon & Rectal Cancer Symptoms & Treatment

Depending on the location of the tumor, symptoms can vary from abdominal pain, chronic slow blood loss that cannot be seen with the naked eye, more rapid and obvious blood loss, or obstruction or inability to pass stools.

Our colon & rectal cancer treatment in Los Angeles can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and newer biologic targeted therapy. Like so many other cancers, the initial stage correlates strongly with the risk of recurrence, as well as the choice and outcome of treatments. The earlier colorectal cancer is diagnosed, the more likely it can be cured.

We Treat All Stages and Types of Colon, Rectal and Anal Cancer

Early-stage cancer of the colon, rectum, or anus
Locally advanced cancer of the colon, rectum, or anus (spread to lymph nodes or organs around the colon)
Metastatic cancer of the colon, rectum, or anus (spread to distant organs)
Recurrent cancer of the colon, rectum, or anus

What We Do

Target the tumor
Safeguard fragile healthy tissues including heart, lungs, lymph nodes and any other affected organ at risk
Strengthen the power of radiation and/or systemic therapy to destroy tumors

How Hyperthermia Therapy Works to Treat Colon & Rectal Cancer

Hyperthermia uses targeted ultrasonic heat to disrupt cancer cell membranes and increases blood flow to the tumor. This increased blood flow makes the tumor more sensitive and vulnerable to both the body’s natural immune defenses and to other cancer therapies like radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

How Hyperthermia Can Help You

Research shows that overall survival at 5 years after treatment of rectal cancer increased with the addition of hyperthermia. Here are some other facts at a glance:

Increases blood flow to tumors creating a high-oxygen environment, which makes radiation therapy work better
Allows for chemotherapy to penetrate deeper into the center of the tumor where it otherwise could not reach
Can stimulate an immune response within the tumor, improving your body’s ability to fight cancer

Early Adoption of Hyperthermia Is Key

Optimally, hyperthermia treatment starts as soon as the patient begins receiving radiation therapy or chemotherapy. Ideally patients receive the most effective treatment possible with the fewest possible side effects. Hyperthermia often has virtually no side effects. When present, side effects are mild.

Selected Hyperthermia and Colon, Rectal & Anal Cancer Studies

We understand that researching cancer treatment can be daunting. Below is a selection of studies from trusted sources that can help you gain a better understanding of how hyperthermia can aid treatment for colorectal cancer.