Rectal Cancer Treatment with Proton Therapy

Often treated with a combination of surgery and radiation, rectal cancer can be successfully eradicated with the help of proton therapy.

With proton therapy, highly precise doses of radiation eliminate "exit doses", so the protons are released only at the site of the cancer. This means that higher doses of radiation can be used to eliminate the rectal tumor, without causing damage to other healthy tissues.

Since rectal cancer is relatively common, successful treatment with proton therapy is an important priority at the University of Florida Proton Therapy Institute.

To learn more about other benefits of treating cancers with proton therapy, visit the About Proton Therapy and The Benefits of Proton Therapy sections of our site.

The normal tissues near the rectum – especially the small bowel – do not tolerate high doses of radiation well. Since proton therapy can deliver effective doses of radiation to rectal tumors, with less risk of damage to healthy tissue, it's an ideal treatment for rectal cancer and other cancers in sensitive areas of the body.

Proton therapy is most useful for patients whose rectal cancer tumors cannot be completely removed, and for those whose colorectal cancer may have spread through the muscle wall of the rectum or to nearby lymph nodes. It may also be helpful after surgery in patients whose cancers have been successfully removed.

Whether you're considering surgery, chemotherapy or radiation as part of your rectal cancer treatment, proton therapy may be a beneficial addition. Its lower risk of side effects and non-invasive nature have helped thousands of patients with colorectal cancer.

Ready to learn more about proton therapy for rectal cancer treatment? Contact the University of Florida Proton Therapy Institute today.