Colon Cancer Treatment
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in India. But with timely diagnosis and the right treatment, most patients can recover fully. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer, getting expert care is the first and most important step.
Dr. Chirag Bhirud is a leading Surgical Oncologist in Pune with over 15+ years of experience treating complex cancers. He has performed 200+ minimally invasive colorectal surgeries with a 95% success rate. He practises at Jupiter Hospital, Baner, Pune.
What Is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the colon (large intestine) or the rectum. Together, the colon and rectum form the lower part of the digestive system. Cancer usually begins as small, non-cancerous growths called polyps. Over time, some polyps can become cancerous if not treated.
Colorectal cancer is also known as colon cancer, rectal cancer, or bowel cancer. It affects both men and women, and cases in younger adults are rising in India. Early detection makes this cancer highly treatable.
What Are the Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer?
Many patients do not notice any symptoms in the early stages. That is why regular screening is so important. As the cancer grows, the following symptoms may appear:
- Blood in stool or rectal bleeding
- Changes in bowel habits — diarrhoea or constipation lasting more than a few weeks
- A feeling that the bowel does not empty completely
- Persistent abdominal pain, cramps, or bloating
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue or weakness without any clear reason
- Narrow or thin stools
- Anaemia (low haemoglobin) that remains unexplained
If you notice any of these signs, do not delay. Contact Dr. Chirag Bhirud, a trusted Surgical Oncologist in Pune, for a thorough evaluation.
What Are the Causes of Colorectal Cancer?
The exact cause of colorectal cancer is not always clear. However, certain factors can lead to abnormal cell growth in the colon or rectum. These include:
- Gene mutations that affect normal cell growth
- Chronic inflammation in the large intestine (inflammatory bowel disease)
- Unhealthy diet — high in processed meats and low in fibre
- Sedentary lifestyle with little physical activity
- Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
- Obesity and type 2 diabetes
- Family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
Who Is at Risk for Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer can affect anyone. However, certain groups face a higher risk:
- Adults above 50 years of age
- People with a personal or family history of colorectal polyps or cancer
- Patients with ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease
- Those with inherited syndromes like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
- Individuals with a diet high in red meat and low in fruits and vegetables
- Heavy smokers and regular alcohol drinkers
- Overweight or obese individuals
If you fall into any of these risk categories, early screening with the Cancer Specialist in Pune can save your life.
How Is Colorectal Cancer Diagnosed?
An accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective treatment. Dr. Chirag Bhirud uses modern diagnostic tools to detect and stage colorectal cancer precisely. Common methods include:
- Colonoscopy — Direct visual examination of the entire colon and rectum
- Biopsy — Tissue sample collection to confirm cancer presence
- CT Scan — Helps assess the size and spread of the tumour
- MRI — Used especially for rectal cancer staging
- PET Scan — Detects cancer spread to other parts of the body
- Blood Tests — Including CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen) levels to monitor cancer activity
Early-stage detection dramatically improves the chances of a full cure. Regular screening is advised for those above 45 or those with risk factors.
Treatment Options for Colorectal Cancer:
Dr. Chirag Bhirud, the Best Cancer Specialist in Pune, creates a personalised treatment plan for every patient. Treatment depends on the stage, location, and overall health of the patient. The main treatment options are:
Surgery:
The primary treatment. Options include laparoscopic, robotic, and open colectomy or rectal resection. Minimally invasive surgery means smaller cuts, less pain, and faster recovery.
Chemotherapy:
Medicines that destroy cancer cells. Often given before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink the tumour, or after surgery (adjuvant) to kill remaining cells.
Radiation Therapy:
High-energy rays target the tumour. Especially useful for rectal cancer before surgery to reduce tumour size.
Targeted Therapy:
Drugs that target specific proteins on cancer cells. Useful for advanced colorectal cancer with specific gene mutations.
Immunotherapy:
Helps the body's immune system recognise and fight cancer. Effective for patients with specific biomarkers (MSI-H or dMMR).
HIPEC:
Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy — a heated chemotherapy wash delivered directly inside the abdomen after surgery. Used for advanced or recurrent colorectal cancer.
Dr. Chirag Bhirud offers all of these treatment options, including advanced robotic and laparoscopic colorectal surgery, at Jupiter Hospital, Baner Pune — making him the go-to Surgical Oncologist in Pune for complex colorectal cases.
Diet and Lifestyle Tips After Colorectal Cancer Surgery:
Recovery after colorectal cancer surgery depends a lot on how well you take care of yourself. Here are simple, practical tips to help you heal faster and stay healthy:
- Eat Fibre-Rich Foods: Include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid white bread and processed foods.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water. Avoid sugary drinks and excessive caffeine.
- Stay Active: Start walking as soon as advised by your doctor. Regular movement aids digestion and recovery.
- Quit Smoking and Alcohol: Both slow healing and raise the risk of cancer returning. Quit completely.
- Limit Red Meat: Avoid processed meats like sausages and red meat. Choose lean protein like fish or dal.
- Manage Stress: Yoga, meditation, and support groups help emotional recovery alongside physical healing.
Your doctor and dietitian will give you a personalised plan based on your surgery type. Always follow their specific advice.
Why Choose Dr. Chirag Bhirud for Colorectal Cancer Surgery in Pune?
When it comes to Colorectal Cancer Treatment in Pune, choosing the right surgeon makes all the difference. Here is why patients across Pune and PCMC trust Dr. Chirag Bhirud:
15+ Years of Expertise:
Extensive experience treating complex gastrointestinal and colorectal cancers.
Robotic and Laparoscopic Surgery:
Minimally invasive techniques mean smaller scars, less pain, and faster return to normal life.
95% Success Rate:
200+ minimally invasive colorectal surgeries with outstanding patient outcomes.
Award-Winning Surgeon:
Recognised at ISO 2019 and ISO-ISMPO 2019 for oncological excellence and research.
Compassionate Care:
Patient-first approach — every treatment plan is personalised and explained clearly.
Accessible in Pune and PCMC:
He provides advanced, minimally invasive, and patient-focused care at Jupiter Hospital, Baner, Pune. For consultation or to book an appointment, call 07028373574 and take the first step towards better health.
As a trusted Cancer Specialist in PCMC, Consult Dr. Chirag Bhirud has treated 10,000+ patients and is committed to providing precise, advanced, and compassionate cancer care to every individual.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Yes. When detected at an early stage, colorectal cancer is highly treatable and often fully curable with surgery and, in some cases, chemotherapy or radiation. Regular screening is so important — especially if you are above 45 or have risk factors.
With minimally invasive (laparoscopic or robotic) surgery, most patients are able to return to normal activities within 3 to 4 weeks. Recovery after open surgery may take 6 to 8 weeks. Dr. Chirag Bhirud uses advanced techniques to ensure faster recovery and less post-operative discomfort.
Not always. Many patients do not require a permanent colostomy. In some cases, a temporary colostomy may be used to allow the bowel to heal, which is reversed in a later procedure. Dr. Chirag Bhirud uses advanced surgical techniques to preserve bowel function wherever possible.
You can call Dr. Chirag Bhirud’s clinic directly at 070283 73574 or email at bhirudcancercare@gmail.com. You can also visit the website at drchiragbhirud.com to request an appointment online.