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Colorectal Cancer Program

We offer comprehensive, team-based care for all types and stages of colorectal cancer, with a focus on personalized treatment planning, evidence-based therapies and the newest surgical techniques.

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Call the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute at 855-776-4224

8557764224
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Leading-edge colorectal cancer specialists and care

Colorectal cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed solid organ cancers in the United States and the leading cause of cancer-related death among adults younger than 50. At the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute, our Colorectal Cancer Treatment Program is one of the largest and most experienced in New England.

You receive coordinated care from a multidisciplinary team of specialists who focus on colorectal cancer and work closely together across disciplines. We’re nationally recognized for delivering innovative, research-informed therapies and personalized treatment plans.

Part of the Cancer Institute

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Our approach to colorectal cancer care

We take time to explain your options clearly, so you can make informed choices. Our team partners with you at every step, from diagnosis through treatment and follow-up care.
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Team-based approach to colorectal cancer

You benefit from coordinated care delivered by leading experts who work together to plan your treatment. Your care team may include:

  • Gastroenterologists
  • Medical oncologists
  • Radiation oncologists
  • Surgical oncologists
  • Nurses and nurse practitioners
  • Palliative care providers
  • Pathologists and diagnostic radiologists
  • Psychiatrists, social workers, and nutritionists
  • Lifestyle medicine specialists
Advanced imaging technology

Our diagnostic radiology team has achieved national recognition for their imaging expertise. They offer:

  • 3D imaging for presurgical planning
  • Combination positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) and positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance imaging (PET/MRI) scans
  • High-speed 2D and 3D CT scans
  • Intraoperative ultrasounds
  • Molecular imaging
  • Spectral imaging
  • Tumor perfusion imaging with CT and MRI
Expertise in cancer diagnosis and staging
It’s critical to get a precise diagnosis and accurate staging (how early or advanced cancer is) to determine the most effective treatment. Our gastrointestinal cancer pathologists subspecialize in analyzing colorectal tumors. They are internationally recognized for their expertise in diagnosing colorectal cancer and planning treatment.
Innovative medical oncology treatments
We offer access to clinical trials studying new therapies designed to target specific gene mutations and molecular changes that cause cancer cells to multiply. These investigational treatments aim to block tumor pathways more precisely and may be offered alone or in combination with standard chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Excellence in colon cancer surgery

Our colorectal surgeons are leaders in advancing surgical care for colon and rectal cancers. Strengths include:

  • Specialized operating rooms designed for complex procedures and intraoperative radiation therapy, allowing multiple specialists to work side by side
  • Experience performing an incisionless surgery to treat rectal cancer
  • Early leadership in sphincter-sparing rectal surgery to avoid permanent colostomies
Exceptional surgical outcomes
Our colorectal surgeons work closely with anesthesiologists, nurses, and pathologists to achieve outstanding outcomes. According to the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program, our patients experience fewer complications compared to national averages.
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Our approach

Colorectal cancer treatments

Our colorectal cancer specialists treat all types and stages of this cancer, using advanced medical therapies, radiation treatments, and surgical approaches, including:
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Treatments

Our cancer specialists

At every step, your care is guided by a multidisciplinary team of cancer specialists. This may include medical, surgical, and radiation oncology physicians, advanced practice providers, radiologists, pathologists, oncology nurses, nurse navigators, and more. You may also work with dietitians, genetic counselors, social workers, and mental health professionals.
An illustration of a care team.
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855-776-4224

Call the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute

8557764224
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Specialists

Patient story

A life saved by early detection of colon cancer

An early cancer screening and immediate, expert care from Mass General Brigham helped Julianne Gaughan beat sneaky, early-onset colon cancer.
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Read Julianne's story
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We connect patients to additional programs that support care across the digestive system and throughout treatment and recovery, including:
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Services and programs

Cancer clinical trials and research

Our research is shaping the future of cancer care. We offer access to clinical trials and emerging therapies, including treatments that may not yet be widely available. Eligibility depends on a person’s diagnosis, treatment history, and more. Explore our research and clinical trials or talk with your care team to learn about available options.
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Explore our cancer research

Learn how cancer research informs patient care

https://research.massgeneralbrigham.org/en/institutes-centers/cancer-institute-research
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Search clinical trials
https://research.massgeneralbrigham.org/en/institutes-centers/cancer-institute-research/cancer-clinical-trials
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Patient resources and support

We offer a range of resources to support patients and caregivers before, during, and after cancer treatment. These services address physical, emotional, and practical needs and are available alongside your medical care.
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Explore articles featuring expert insights on cancer care, patient experiences, and tips for managing a cancer diagnosis.

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Contact the Cancer Institute

Call us to speak with a team member who can help you understand your options and guide you to the care that is right for you. With locations throughout New England and support for patients traveling from outside the United States, we make it easier to access coordinated, expert care.
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phone
855-776-4224

Call the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute at 855-776-4224

8557764224
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International Patient Services

Contact International Patient Services

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Contact