Colorectal cancer

There are a number of treatments that are available for patients with colorectal cancer, also known as bowel cancer. These treatments may include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy or immunotherapy. The type and combination of treatment you receive will depend on where in the bowel the cancer is and how advanced the disease has become. 

Patients referred to the service by their GP will be assessed as an outpatient by a specialist colorectal doctor or Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS). They may suggest that you have a colonoscopy, Computerised Tomography (CT) scan or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan to further examine your bowel. 

You may be invited to attend appointments, investigations or procedures at any of our hospital sites. After the investigations have been completed, your case will be discussed at the Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) meeting. You will then receive an appointment to see a specialist who will explain your treatment choices.

• Cancer MDT information, UHB website

Patients who present via the emergency department with bowel related problems will be assessed, investigated and supported through any emergency treatment required. A follow up program is in place to monitor patients once your treatment has finished. 

Throughout this process you will have access to our CNS team, who will support you with any physical or emotional concerns. The team supports patients at all stages of their cancer pathway, including diagnosis, treatment and post-treatment follow-up.