Colon Cancer
Call for an AppointmentOur colorectal cancer doctors and surgeons treat people with colorectal cancer every day, working closely together to provide you with comprehensive, personalized care. If you need surgery, our colorectal surgeons perform sphincter-sparing procedures that reduce your chance of needing a permanent colostomy bag. We maximize your quality of life and your colon health.
Duke Cancer Centers are located in Cary, Raleigh, Durham, and throughout the Triangle.
Tests
Finding colon cancer early and obtaining an accurate diagnosis are key to obtaining the best possible outcome. Several methods are used to detect and diagnose colon cancers.
Colonoscopy
A camera at the tip of a flexible plastic tube is inserted in the rectum to allow the doctor to evaluate the entire colon. We routinely use high-resolution colonoscopy to create clearer images that offer better detection of polyps and cancer not seen with standard colonoscopy.
FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test)
FIT tests for hidden blood in stool, which can be an early sign of cancer. A kit is mailed to your home with instructions on how to collect the stool. Your primary care doctor will order this test to be repeated annually. If you have a positive FIT, a colonoscopy is recommended for further evaluation of your colon.
Stool DNA
A stool DNA test looks for abnormal DNA from cancer or polyp cells in your stool. This can be an early sign of cancer or, in some cases, large polyps. This test is usually ordered by your primary care doctor. A kit is mailed to your home with instructions on how to collect and return the stool to be tested. Since some insurance companies do not pay for this test, you should talk to your insurer and your primary care doctor first. If you have a positive stool DNA test, a colonoscopy is recommended for further evaluation of your colon.
Virtual Colonoscopy
A special CT scan is used to image the colon. Studies show that it is effective for identifying medium to large polyps but is less effective in identifying small or flat polyps. Also called CT colonography, it may be best for people who cannot have or have failed a conventional colonoscopy. If you plan to pursue this option, please discuss it with your insurance company and primary care doctor, as this test may not be covered by your insurance.
Why Choose Duke
Comprehensive, High-Quality Colon Cancer Care
As a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, we offer a level of expertise found only in the top cancer centers across the country. The skills and experience of our colon cancer specialists come from working with people with colon cancer every day.
A Team of Specialists
We have a range of board-certified colon cancer specialists, including medical and radiation providers, colorectal surgeons, gastroenterologists, radiologists, and pathologists. They work with geneticists, specially-trained nurses, nutritionists, and social workers to regularly discuss your care, collect opinions, and offer coordinated surgical, medical, and follow-up care.
Nationally Recognized Experts
Our specialists test new approaches in clinical trials. For example, we were involved in the development of the targeted therapy Avastin, which shrinks tumors and extends survival in patients when colorectal cancer has spread. We also study genes, how they function, and their impact on health.
One-Day Evaluation
As a first-time patient here, you will undergo a thorough, day-long evaluation and consultation. You will leave with a comprehensive treatment plan that meets your needs. We can expedite the process even further if you bring with you the results of blood tests, scans, and other tests that were performed prior to your visit. If you need additional imaging or testing, those services are conveniently located within our facilities.
Access to Clinical Trials
You may be eligible to participate in our ongoing colorectal cancer clinical trials. These trials give you access to emerging anti-cancer targeted therapies, surgical approaches, and methods for minimizing common cancer-related symptoms.
When Colon Cancer Spreads to Brain or Spine
New treatments are making it possible for people to live longer, with a better quality of life, when cancer has spread to the brain or spine. Duke experts in the medical and surgical management of metastatic brain and spine tumors use these advanced therapies to extend life for people who may have been told they are out of options.
Enhanced Recovery Shortens Hospital Stays
Our doctors are national leaders in enhanced recovery, a program that minimizes fasting before surgery, encourages physical rehabilitation immediately after surgery, and incorporates specialized pain management to reduce the stress of colon surgery. Duke research shows that these enhanced recovery approaches decrease postoperative complication rates and reduce the length of hospital stays.
More Minimally Invasive Options
Nearly 80% of our colon cancer surgeries are performed laparoscopically or robotically to minimize pain and scarring, and lower incidence of infection. In this procedure, surgeons insert a device through small incisions. This less invasive method is used to identify and sometimes remove tumors and can result in smaller wounds. You may also leave the hospital sooner and recover faster.
Hereditary Colorectal Cancer Counseling and Testing
If you are at high risk for or have a family history of colon cancer, you can work with the genetic counselors in our hereditary cancer clinic to determine and reduce your risk.
Support for You and Your Loved Ones
Our comprehensive support services range from helping patients minimize the side effects of treatment to coping with the emotional and psychological effects of diagnosis and treatment. View all of our cancer support groups in our event calendar.
Where you receive your cancer care is important. Duke University Hospital is proud of our team and the exceptional care they provide. They are why our cancer program is nationally ranked, and the highest ranked program in North Carolina, according to U.S. News & World Report for 2021–2022.