Treating Stage 0 Colorectal Cancer

Following your colorectal cancer diagnosis, your team of doctors will begin to advise you on the treatment options that are available, and which are most suitable for your diagnosis. Depending on your stage, cancer/tumor type and genetics, some treatments may be more or less effective than others, and having a better understanding of what to expect can help you make more informed decisions.

In this series of articles, we cover the treatment that you may be recommended based on the cancer stage when you are diagnosed. We hope this helps you keep a positive mindset while preparing for the next phase of your journey with cancer.

This article will outline and explain the available and likely treatments for stage 0 colorectal cancer.

Stage 0 colorectal cancer, or cancer/carcinoma in situ, is defined as abnormal cells found in the mucosa/mucosal layer, the inner lining of the colon or rectum. “In situ” is latin for “in its original place”. This means that the abnormal cells are at the point of origin and have not spread further.

While it is referred to as stage 0 cancer, it is usually considered a pre-cancer, that is, the abnormal cells have potential to mutate further and become cancerous. At times, these abnormal cells may not become invasive.

Stage 0 cancers are usually found incidentally during routine colonoscopy. However, determining the correct stage would require a closer examination of the affected tissue. A local excision can be done while the colonoscopy procedure is ongoing. The tools are inserted through the tube of the colonoscope to remove the polyp.

Other treatment methods such as radiation therapy are rarely employed to treat stage 0 cancer, but if the affected area is too large to remove through a local excision, surgery may be required to remove the abnormal tissue and a radius of healthy tissue around it. The healthy sections of the colon are then sewn together and allowed to heal. This procedure is called a partial colectomy, as it involves removing part of the colon.

The removed tissue is sent for laboratory testing in order to accurately determine the T and N staging. If no other abnormalities are found, you would be able to resume normal life once you have fully recovered after surgery. Your doctor may recommend and schedule regular screening for colorectal cancer thereafter as a precaution.