Colorectal Cancer
Expert, individualized care
Why choose Riverside for your Colorectal Cancer Care

  • High quality colonoscopy: Board certified gastroenterologists perform colonoscopy with polyp detection rates that exceed national benchmarks, a marker of exceptional quality and safety
  • Fellowship trained colorectal surgeon: Our fellowship trained colorectal surgeon uses minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques to fix surgically, restore function to minimize need for colostomy bags
  • Advanced endoscopy: Specially trained advanced endoscopists perform highly specialized endoscopic, minimally invasive procedures used to remove complex, large polyps
  • Multidisciplinary care: Our team of colorectal cancer experts review complex cases collaboratively at tumor board case conferences to precisely plan the most effective, individualized treatment plan
  • Colorectal cancer navigator: Our oncology certified registered nurse navigator provides individualized support and guidance across phases of your care
  • Leading edge colorectal cancer treatments and therapies: Surgery, radiation therapy, cancer drugs or a combination of treatments available, targeted to what is best for your care

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Colorectal cancer care, close to home where you have support

Access to leading-edge technologies and treatments, often found at the nation's leading cancer centers, available here at Riverside.

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Committed to preventing and detecting colorectal cancer early

Colorectal cancer is highly preventable with colonoscopy, which detects and removes polyps before they have time to turn cancerous.

Because colorectal cancer often shows no signs or symptoms in early stages, screening is essential for early detection.

In addition to colonoscopy, Riverside also offers at home screening options. If your at-home test is abnormal, you’ll need a colonoscopy.

Advanced diagnostic capabilities

Our advanced diagnostic technologies allow us to understand the characteristics of the colorectal cancer, so treatments can be individualized. We offer:

  • Endoscopic ultrasound for colorectal cancer staging
  • Genomic and molecular testing
  • Pelvic MRI
  • PET Scan


Complex cases are reviewed at a GI specific Tumor Board Case Conference, where medical oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists and others share collective insights and expertise, review the latest research and scientific evidence to build a targeted treatment plan personalized to you.


Treatment Options

Treatments are personalized and based on National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines. Riverside Cancer Care Network offers comprehensive methods to treat colorectal cancer.

Surgery is performed to remove the affected portion of the colon, then reattached. Colon resection surgery may be done laparoscopically or on our DaVinci robot. This technique allows similar function after surgery as before surgery and reduces need for colostomy bags.

Learn more about cancer surgery at Riverside

If a large or complex polyp is found during colonoscopy, Riverside Health has advanced endoscopists who can perform an endoscopic resection. Advanced endoscopy often prevents the need for colon surgery.

Learn more about our Advanced Endoscopy program

Radiation therapy, including stereotactic treatment options, may be part of your treatment should your colorectal cancer become metastatic.

Learn more about radiation therapy at Riverside


Through genomic or molecular testing, medical oncologists can determine which cancer drug treatment is most effective for your unique type of cancer.

Learn more about cancer drug treatment at Riverside


Innovative clinical trials and research allows us to advance science and investigate potential new treatments for colorectal and other cancers.

Through our UVA Health affiliation, patients have access to promising treatments, novel drug combinations and approaches.

Treatments used for colorectal cancer today are available because patients participated in clinical trials.

Learn about Research Studies and Clinical Trials


Types of Colorectal Cancer and High Risk Conditions

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Early detection means everything

With screening, colorectal cancer is one of the most easily detected and preventable types of cancer. Begin screening at 45 years of age, or earlier if you have risk factors for colorectal cancer.

Learn your risk and ways to be screened for colorectal cancer