Surgery for colorectal cancer

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the fourth most common cancer in the UK, accounting for 11% of newly diagnosed cancers (40 000 new cases each year). The highest incidence rates are seen in the over-75-year-olds. The primary treatment for two-thirds of patients who are diagnosed with CRC is surgery. GPs will come across many patients who have had CRC surgery and play a vital role in co-ordinating complex management strategies. This article will give you a brief overview of operations patients may have and provide a better understanding of what surgery for CRC means for patient care in general practice.