Access information on common Colon and rectal cancer questions at Consumer Reports Health.

Colon and rectal cancer

Questions to ask your doctor

If you've been diagnosed with colon or rectal cancer, you might want to talk with your doctor to find out more.

Here are some questions that you might want to ask:

How far has the cancer spread? Has it reached other organs or is it just in my colon or rectum?
What stage is the cancer?
Do any of my

lymph nodes
Lymph nodes (also called glands) are small, bean-shaped lumps that you cannot usually see or easily feel. They are located in various parts of the body, such as the neck, armpit and groin. Lymph nodes filter the lymph fluid and remove unusual things, such as bacteria and cancer cells.

lymph nodes have cancer cells in them? If so, how many nodes have cancer cells?
Will I need surgery?
If I need surgery, what will this involve? What part of my body will you take away?
Is the surgeon you're recommending someone who does these kinds of operations a lot?
Will I need to have a

colostomy
A colostomy provides a way for food waste to safely leave your body if your rectum has been removed or if your colon and rectum aren't working properly. Your surgeon creates a new opening for your colon (usually on your belly) so that your feces can be collected in a bag called a colostomy bag.

colostomy? If so, will it be permanent?
Will I need any treatment after surgery?
How long will it take me to recover after surgery?
Is my family at risk of getting this type of cancer?
Is there anything my family members should be doing to protect themselves against this type of cancer?
Should I be following a special diet or taking vitamins to help keep the cancer from coming back?
Will my treatment cure my cancer? How will you know whether I'm cured?

This information was last updated on May 08, 2009

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment.
© BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2009. All rights reserved.

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