Suggest Treatment For Colon Cancer
My mother is facing a right hemicolectomy due to a 'moderately differentiated tumour in the ascending colon.
She has undergone a private immunotherapy in Switzerland, with ultrasound and GcMAf (macrophage activating factor) which is new, but highly peer reviewed.
This reduced the tumour size by half in one week. It is now 6.4cm by 4.0cm as seen by highly experienced ultrasonographer. The reduction in size is now expected to slow considerably.
The surgeon Mr Grabham of Surrey and Sussex NHS (UK) has made it clear that they will not even rescan to confirm any improvements. And says that the operation will remain the same, with removal of the ileocoecal valve and reconnection of the ilium to the transverse colon and removal of the vascular and lymphatic networks to the ascending colon.
Is this necessary? Or is there the option of a less radical operation as the tumour shrinks?
We can pay for a private MRI and then possibly a private surgeon, but that depends on cost. An approximation of this cost in the UK would also be very helpful please.
Thank you for your answer.
Radical surgery the best option.
Detailed Answer:
Thanks for writing in HCM,
It is reassuring to hear that the size of the tumor has decreased following immunotherapy. The procedure of choice is radical right hemicolectomy which has been rightly advised by the British Surgeon. The parts to be removed at surgery as described by him are absolutely right.
Radical surgery for cancer offers the best chance for the patient as it removes the primary tumor very well. The response to adjuvant therapy is better in patients who have undergone radical surgery. In addition the radical surgery also helps in elaborate staging of the disease which is pivitol for determining the protocol for adjuvant therapy.
A contrast enhanced CT of the complete abdomen will be beneficial prior to surgery in order to avoid any unexpected surprises in the form of metastases.
I hope this answers your query pertaining to the choice of surgery.
Regards