Treatments

Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy is a non-invasive technique used to destroy cancer cells. The aim is to maximise damage to cancer cells whilst at the same time minimising damage to the normal surrounding cells. Modern techniques use CT or MRI images to guide the treatment and ensure a high level of accuracy. Radiotherapy can be given on its own or with chemotherapy as a definitive treatment, or before/after surgery to reduce the risk of cancer recurring. In advanced cancers where a cure may not be possible it can help improve symptoms.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is treatment used to attack the cancer. Chemotherapy can be given orally as tablets or intravenously through a drip or a pump. Several different types of chemotherapy have been developed over the years and are used in different combinations depending on the type of cancer being treated. Chemotherapy can be given before or after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence or in advanced cancers where a cure may not be possible it can help improve symptoms and extend life expectancy. Sometimes chemotherapy is combined with radiotherapy or immunotherapy to enhance the effect against the cancer.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that works by stimulating the body's immune system to fight cancer. The goal of immunotherapy is to enhance or restore the immune system's ability to recognize and destroy cancer cells. This can be done in a number of ways, including through the use of checkpoint inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, cancer vaccines, and adoptive cell transfer. Immunotherapy has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of cancers, including colorectal cancer. It is often used in combination with chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Targeted Agents

Molecular targeted agents are a class of drug treatments used against cancer. Targeted agents recognise specific features on a cancer cell that allow it to be pinpointed. The treatment then blocks specific actions of the cancer cell causing it to die or for growth to slow. A number of targeted agents have been developed, some of which are effective in the treatment of colorectal cancer.

Stereotactic Radiotherapy and CyberKnife

Stereotactic radiotherapy is an advanced radiation technique where very high doses of radiation are delivered with a high level of accuracy over a short period of time. This treatment is especially effective for small, isolated areas of cancer in the lungs, liver bones or pelvis and is usually associated with minimal side effects.

CyberKnife® is a specific device used to deliver stereotactic radiotherapy. It consists of a linear accelerator on a robotic arm and is able to continuously monitor the position of the cancer during your treatment allowing a greater degree of accuracy.

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