Colorectal Cancer Screening in Houston, TX

Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer, is any type of cancer that starts in the colon or the rectum. Houston Colon and Rectal Surgery in North Houston and West Houston, TX is pleased to offer colorectal cancer screenings for local men and women. This exam is generally reserved for patients who are over the age of 50, had positive results after a colonoscopy, have a family history of cancer, or abnormal growths in the colon called polyps. Our team of board-certified colorectal specialists is here to help walk you through this process with great care. Our goal is to accurately diagnose colorectal cancer and identify any other concerns that may be threatening your health.

There are several types of diagnostic tests and screenings that can be performed to identify colorectal cancer, including:

• Colonoscopy: This is a procedure that uses a specialized tube to examine the inside of the colon. Biopsy forceps can also be passed through the tube to take a small tissue sample.
• Biopsy: This procedure surgical removes a small amount of tissue from the suspected area to determine if the cells are cancerous or noncancerous. The tissue is sent to a certified lab to be examined by a pathologist.
• Blood tests: Several types of blood tests can be conducted to identify any harmful abnormalities. A small amount of blood is generally extracted from the arm for these tests.
• Ultrasound: This test utilizes sound waves to generate a live picture of the colon for close examination. Digital pictures will be captured at this time to be analyzed by a medical specialist to identify any abnormalities or determine if colorectal cancer has spread to other areas.
• Computed tomography (CT): This exam utilizes advanced 3-dimensional imaging to capture pictures of the colon. Sometimes, a specialized dye is given to the patient prior to the scan in order to gain more detailed images.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): This test uses strong magnetic fields to capture images of the colon. It can also measure the size of a tumor.
• Positron emission tomography (PET): This is an imaging scan that utilizes a radiotracer to capture pictures of the colon, other organs, and surrounding tissues. A PET may take 60 – 90 minutes to perform.

Our team will schedule a follow-up to discuss your test results with you and what steps are needed in order to move forward. There are a variety of treatment options and procedures that can be performed to treat colorectal abnormalities and cancer. These may include radiation treatment, chemotherapy, polypectomy, or surgical intervention. We will develop a personalized treatment program and review all of your options to eliminate cancer and other dangerous colorectal conditions. When caught early, complete remission of colorectal cancer is fairly high.

Contact Houston Colon and Rectal Surgery in North Houston or West Houston, TX today to schedule your colorectal screening. Our specialists have accurately diagnosed colorectal cancer and the underlying cause of other serious colorectal conditions for countless patients. Don’t let the fear of the unknown stop you from gaining the medical insight and peace of mind you need to seize back your health. We are here to serve you and help you navigate through your health journey.