Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer and the second most common cause of cancer-related death in the United States. About 5% of people will develop colorectal cancer in their lifetime. When detected early, it is treatable and often curable. During its early stages, colon cancer may not cause symptoms. Regular screening is important in preventing and detecting colon cancer.

Learning you have colorectal cancer can feel overwhelming. Colorectal cancer is complex, so knowing exactly what you’re facing is important. Nebraska Medicine physicians take the time to help you understand your diagnosis, treatment options and what you can expect from your care.

Our team of colorectal cancer experts provides care for:

• Colon cancer
• Rectal cancer
• Anal cancer

We aim to make you and your loved ones as comfortable as possible throughout your cancer treatment.

What to expect

At your first appointment, you’ll receive a comprehensive evaluation and meet the specialists who will take part in your care. Our colorectal cancer experts work closely with specialists throughout Nebraska Medicine to determine the best course of treatment for you. This multidisciplinary team may include specialists in medical oncology, colorectal surgery, surgical oncology, radiology, pathology and radiation oncology.

Treatment options could include:

• Laparoscopic and robotic surgical procedures
• Transanal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS)
• Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) surgery
• Intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT)

We will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs and preserves your quality of life. Colorectal surgery is often the first step in the treatment of colon or rectal cancer.

Why you should choose Nebraska Medicine

Receive advanced, coordinated care close to home

You will have an entire team of dedicated colorectal cancer specialists who will create a comprehensive treatment plan specific to you. Nebraska Medicine colorectal surgeons are nationally recognized experts in their field. Members of our multidisciplinary team helped author the NCCN and ASCRS guidelines for the treatment of colon and rectal cancer. They are actively involved in research studies that aim to advance our knowledge of colorectal cancer. 

Our partnership with the University of Nebraska Medical Center gives us access to breakthrough clinical trials and innovative treatments for patients with the most complex forms of colorectal cancer.

Nebraska Medicine is an NCI-designated cancer center

We bring together more than 200 world-leading specialists and researchers to transform the cancer experience. The Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center is the only National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center in Nebraska. 

All patients undergoing cancer treatment have access to our 24/7 Infusion Center at the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, which serves as a treatment center and an around-the-clock urgent-care-type facility for those battling cancer  –  a rare offering in the region.