A Nationally Ranked Program
We are a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center and are part of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, an alliance of the nation’s leading cancer centers dedicated to improving care for our patients. We offer a level of expertise found only in the top cancer centers across the country. The skills and experience of our specialists come from working with people with colorectal cancer every day.
A Team of Specialists
We have a range of board-certified colorectal cancer specialists, including medical and radiation providers, colorectal surgeons, gastroenterologists, radiologists, and pathologists. They hold weekly group meetings called “tumor boards” to ensure that the most appropriate treatment recommendations are made for each patient. Our experts also work with geneticists, specially trained nurses, nutritionists, and social workers to regularly discuss your care.
High-Definition Colonoscopies
We routinely use high-resolution imaging scopes to create clearer colonoscopy images that better detect and allow for removal of polyps and cancer not seen with standard colonoscopy equipment.
Enhanced Recovery Reduces Hospital Stays and Readmissions
Our enhanced recovery program minimizes pre-operative fasting, encourages immediate post-operative physical rehabilitation, and incorporates specialized pain management to reduce the stress of colorectal cancer surgery. Duke research shows that this enhanced recovery approach decreases post-operative complication rates and reduces the length of hospital stays.
Research to Improve Care
Our specialists also 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 so we can provide you with more personalized treatment options.
Genetic Counseling and Screening for Inherited Cancer Syndromes
If you are at high risk for or have a family history of colorectal cancer, you may work with our genetic counselors to identify and reduce your risk.
Support for You and Your Family
Our comprehensive support services range from helping patients minimize the side effects of cancer treatment to coping with the emotional and psychological effects of diagnosis and treatment. View all of our cancer support groups in our event calendar.
Access to Clinical Trials
As a patient at Duke, you may be able to participate in our ongoing clinical trials, which test new anti-cancer targeted therapies, new surgical approaches, and new ways to minimize patient concerns and cancer-related symptoms. Participating in a clinical trial may afford you access to new treatment approaches before they become widely available.
