Colon Cancer Specialist

What is colon cancer?

Colon cancer occurs in the lowest part of your digestive system, affecting your colon, also known as the large intestine. In many cases, routine cancer screenings are the most effective way to identify cancer early, allowing for the most effective treatment.

If you have a history of cancer, or if colon cancer runs in your family, Dr. Rayapudi may recommend routine colon cancer screenings. If he detects any abnormalities, he may recommend additional testing to confirm cancer.

What are the symptoms of colon cancer?

The most common symptoms of colon cancer include:

• Diarrhea or constipation, or other change in bowel habits
• Chronic fatigue
• Low iron levels
• Black or bloody stools
• Frequent stomach or gas pains
• Unexplained weight loss

Dr. Rayapudi may request a colonoscopy if you have one or more of the common symptoms.

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a screening test that involves a device known as a colonoscope. Dr. Rayapudi inserts the colonoscope into your anus and guides it in through your colon. Attached to the device is a tiny camera that transmits real-time images of your colon and rectum, which gives Dr. Rayapudi an up-close view of your lower digestive tract.

If he finds polyps or other growths that appear suspicious, Dr. Rayapudi may perform a biopsy during the colonoscopy. That involves the removal of the tissue and examining it further to confirm or rule out cancer.

If a biopsy identifies cancer, Dr. Rayapudi takes the next step to determine the stage of the cancer. Staging describes the aggressiveness of the cancer and how much it has spread. He may use additional imaging tests to stage the cancer before recommending appropriate treatment.

What treatments are available for colon cancer?

In early-stage colon cancer, Dr. Rayapudi may initially recommend surgery to remove cancerous tissue growths in the colon. If cancer has spread beyond the colon, he may also choose to remove surrounding tissue or affected lymph nodes.

In more advanced stages of cancer, Dr. Rayapudi may remove part of the large intestine. Typically, he can reconnect the two ends of the colon, ensuring you can continue to have normal bowel movements.

If complications don’t allow for the reconnection right away though, Dr. Rayapudi may need to create a small hole in your abdomen for a colostomy bag. He attaches this bag to the hole, which collects your waste. This option is usually temporary but may become permanent if reconnection isn’t possible.

Learn more about your options for treating colon cancer by scheduling an appointment online or by phone.