Rectal Cancer

Rectal cancer is a malignancy (cancerous tumor) located within the rectum, the last part of the digestive tract just before the anus. The rectum stores waste material until your body eliminates it through a bowel movement. The most common type of rectal cancer is called an adenocarcinoma.

At the Colorectal Division of North Carolina Surgery at UNC REX in Raleigh, rectal cancer is thoroughly treated by our highly experienced and board-certified colon and rectal surgeons. Our doctors can help you better understand this condition and determine which treatment option(s) would be right for you.

Risk Factors of Rectal Cancer

Though doctors do not know the exact cause of rectal cancer, risk factors can include:

• Age (especially over 40)
• Having inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
• Certain inherited family conditions, such as Lynch syndrome
• Heavy alcohol use
• Obesity
• Personal or family history of colorectal cancer
• Smoking

Rectal Cancer Symptoms

Some people with rectal cancer don’t experience any symptoms, and doctors only find it on a routine colonoscopy. For others, they may notice certain indicators such as:

• Change in bowel habits
• Fatigue
• Fecal incontinence (inability to control stool)
• Rectal bleeding
• Rectal pain
• Unintentional weight loss

Your First Visit

Your North Carolina Surgery team will help you plan the most effective treatment strategy based on many different factors, which we will discuss during your consultation. Early detection is vital: if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, schedule an appointment at our clinic immediately. Otherwise, there is the risk of the tumor growing or spreading, minimizing the effectiveness of less invasive treatment options and the chance of a full recovery.

Doctors diagnose this cancer using tools like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computerized tomography (CT) scans. In addition, it will be crucial to review your full medical history to perform an accurate diagnosis and establish the best possible treatment plan.

Surgical Treatment for Rectal Cancer

Treatment for rectal cancer in Raleigh depends on the stage at the time of diagnosis. Your specialist may recommend a transanal endoscopic removal of the tumor, a proctectomy (surgical removal of all or part of the rectum), chemotherapy, radiation, or a combination of all these treatments. 

Rectal Cancer Treatment Price

The cost of a rectal cancer treatment plan will depend on the procedures used and medicines administered. Our friendly staff will gladly assist you regarding insurance coverage and pricing concerns. 

Contact Us for a Consultation

Rectal cancer surgery in Raleigh is routinely performed by our team of colorectal surgeons. Together, we’ve seen so many patients go on to fully recover and lead healthy, successful lives. To get started on diagnosis, contact the Colorectal Division of North Carolina Surgery at UNC REX to set up your initial consultation.