The method of drug delivery is determined by the most effective way of getting the highest dosage of drug to the tumor. For those patients who are unable to undergo surgery, chemotherapy may be of benefit. Additionally, such patients may be eligible for innovative treatments undergoing testing in clinical trials. Radiation Therapy is often used in conjunction with surgery and chemotherapy in the treatment of colon cancer. Radiation may also be given as an adjuvant therapy following surgery.
Adjuvant therapy aims to decrease the chance of recurrence and prolong patient survival.
Brachytherapy offers the opportunity to deliver a very high dose of radiation to the immediate vicinity of the tumor. The Institute's physicians are aware that careful shielding of normal body parts will allow the safest delivery of radiation. Use of these technologies can increase treatment success and decrease side effects. Counseling and Support seminars, focusing on cancer education, nutrition, stress management, and coping mechanisms, are offered to all patients under John Wayne Cancer Institute's Psychosocial Care Program. A specific two-day program is available to patients with gastrointestinal cancer.