Rectal Cancer Treatment Melbourne

Rectal cancer is a condition that requires specialized treatment, often involving treatment by non-surgical specialists in combination with the colorectal surgeon.

Advanced Surgical Approaches

Surgical techniques for rectal surgery are evolving, and removal of rectal cancers can be performed in several ways. The choice of platform can be robotic, laparoscopic, open, and even transanal, such as TEMs [Transanal endoscopic microscope], TAMIS [Transanal minimal invasive surgery], and straight transanal approaches. These transanal techniques are performed in very carefully selected cases of early rectal cancer.

Our approach to rectal cancer treatment in Melbourne emphasizes selecting the most appropriate surgical technique based on individual patient factors, tumor location, and staging results. This personalized approach ensures optimal outcomes while minimizing potential complications.

Specialized Staging and Diagnostic Imaging

The staging investigations for rectal cancer are also increasingly specialised and involve MRI scans, rectal ultrasound scans, and sometimes PET scans. The interpretation of these scans is also best done by a specially trained radiologist.

Rectal ultrasound appears to be still very useful in staging early rectal cancer, whilst MRI has better use in cancers that have penetrated through the rectal wall.

PET scanning is reserved for clarifying abnormalities that are picked up by staging CAT scans, which are still done to check the health of organs such as the liver and lungs.

Accurate staging is crucial for determining the most effective treatment plan and forms the foundation of successful rectal cancer treatment in Melbourne.

TAMIS and TEMs: Minimally Invasive Options

These techniques are used for removing abnormalities of the rectal wall such as polyps. They both have platforms that enable instruments to be passed through devices inserted into the anal canal that obtain a seal so that the rectum can be inflated with carbon dioxide in order to cut out these abnormalities. The abnormalities can be cut out, including the full thickness of the rectal wall, and the resultant defect can be stitched closed.

Multidisciplinary Care Team

Effective rectal cancer treatment in Melbourne requires coordination between multiple specialists including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and pathologists. This collaborative approach ensures comprehensive care from diagnosis through recovery, with each specialist contributing their expertise to achieve the best possible outcomes for our patients.