Colorectal Cancer

Rectal Cancer Care

Rectal cancer is an active area of research and innovation, with many important developments in recent years. Today, doctors use an evidence-based approach to create a plan that fits each patient. They look at the tumor, how it responds to treatment and what matters most to the patient, including daily function and quality of life.

Advanced treatment with a focus on organ preservation

Most patients with rectal cancer do not go straight to surgery. Instead, they receive a combination of chemotherapy and radiation to shrink their tumor before an operation. This is known as total neoadjuvant therapy (TNT). 

After TNT, patients are restaged to see how much cancer remains in the pelvis. Patients with residual disease often need robotic surgery to remove their cancer. However, patients who respond very well to TNT and have no evidence of cancer during restaging may be able to preserve their rectum and avoid major surgery. 

This is called the “watch and wait” program. It involves close, ongoing surveillance to ensure the tumor does not come back.

What to expect

You’ll be cared for by a team of experts in colorectal surgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology, radiology and genetic counseling. This team approach ensures every patient gets care that fits their needs.

Your first visit will be a meeting with one of our colorectal surgeons. They will review your health history, do an exam and go over your treatment options. You will learn about chemotherapy, radiation, surgery and follow-up care.

If your cancer responds well to treatment, you may be able to join our watch-and-wait program. This program helps some patients avoid surgery and keep their rectum. During your care, our team will listen to your goals and work with you to create a plan that feels right for you.

Why choose Nebraska Medicine

Nebraska Medicine offers one of the best rectal cancer programs in the region. Our team uses the latest technology, research and surgical methods to give patients expert care close to home.
Our nationally recognized care team helps shape how rectal cancer is treated across the country through authorship of clinical guidelines and leadership in ongoing rectal cancer research. This commitment to excellence ensures our patients receive the most current, evidence-based care available.

We offer:

• Total neoadjuvant therapy (TNT).
• Robotic TAMIS (transanal minimally invasive surgery) for early lesions.
• Immunotherapy for MMR-deficient cancers.
• Organ preservation and watch-and-wait programs for patients who achieve a complete response.
• Complex multi-visceral resections with urology, gynecologic oncology, radiation oncology (IORT) and plastic surgery specialists.
• Access to ongoing clinical trials through the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC).

Our expertise, research partnerships and focus on innovation make Nebraska Medicine a trusted destination for comprehensive rectal cancer care.

Schedule an appointment

If you or a loved one would like to make an appointment, please call : 800.922.0000 or schedule online.