Rectal Cancer Treatment in Pune
Rectal cancer is a serious condition — but with early detection and expert care, it is very much treatable. Choosing the right cancer doctor is the first and most important step towards recovery.
Dr. Chirag Bhirud is a highly experienced Rectal Cancer Surgeon in Pune and Surgical Oncologist in Pune with over 17+ years of expertise in treating colorectal cancers, including rectal cancer. He practises at Jupiter Hospital, Baner, Pune, and is one of the most trusted Cancer Specialists in Pune and PCMC. Patients from across Maharashtra choose Dr. Chirag Bhirud for Rectal Cancer Treatment in Pune because of his surgical precision, advanced techniques, and compassionate patient care.
Dr. Chirag Bhirud has been awarded the Best Oral Paper at the Indian Society of Oncology (ISO) 2019 at Indore and the Best Poster Award at ISO-ISMPO 2019. He has published oncosurgical articles and operative videos in reputed national journals and participated in over 20 national conferences. Awarded the prestigious JRD Tata Scholarship during his MBBS, Dr. Chirag Bhirud brings both academic distinction and hands-on surgical expertise to every patient.
With a 95% success rate and 10,000+ patients treated, Dr. Chirag Bhirud delivers world-class, patient-focused cancer treatment at Jupiter Hospital, Baner, Pune
What Is Rectal Cancer?
Rectal cancer begins in the rectum — the last several centimetres of the large intestine, just before the anus. It is closely related to colon cancer, and together they are referred to as colorectal cancer.
Rectal cancer usually develops slowly over several years. It often begins as a small, non-cancerous growth called a polyp on the inner lining of the rectum. Over time, some polyps can turn cancerous if not removed.
Because of its location deep in the pelvis, rectal cancer requires specialised surgical expertise. Dr. Chirag Bhirud, a skilled Rectal Cancer Specialist in Pune, has extensive experience in performing complex rectal cancer surgeries with precision and care.
What are the Symptoms of Rectal Cancer?
Rectal cancer may not cause symptoms in the early stages. As the disease progresses, the following signs may appear:
- Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
- Change in bowel habits — persistent diarrhoea or constipation
- Feeling that the bowel does not empty completely
- Narrow or ribbon-like stools
- Persistent abdominal discomfort — cramps, gas, or pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue and weakness
- A lump or mass felt in the rectal area
Do not ignore these symptoms. Early consultation with Dr. Chirag Bhirud — a trusted rectal doctor and Cancer Specialist in Pune — can lead to timely diagnosis and better treatment outcomes.
What are the Causes of Rectal Cancer?
Rectal cancer develops when cells in the rectum undergo abnormal DNA changes and multiply uncontrollably. The main contributing causes include:
- Pre-existing polyps in the rectum or colon that turn cancerous
- Inherited gene mutations — such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
- Chronic inflammation due to ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease
- Diet high in red meat, processed foods, and low in fibre
- Sedentary lifestyle and obesity
- Long-term smoking and heavy alcohol consumption
- Previous radiation therapy to the pelvic area
Understanding the causes helps in making lifestyle changes that lower the risk of developing rectal cancer.
Types and Stages of Rectal Cancer
Understanding the type and stage of rectal cancer helps Dr. Chirag Bhirud plan the most effective and personalised treatment for every patient.
Types of Rectal Cancer
- Adenocarcinoma — The most common type. It accounts for more than 95% of all rectal cancer cases. It develops in the mucus-producing gland cells lining the rectum.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma — A rare type that develops in the flat cells near the lower rectum and anus. It requires a different treatment approach from adenocarcinoma.
- Carcinoid Tumours — Slow-growing tumours that develop in the hormone-producing cells of the rectum. Often discovered during a routine colonoscopy.
- Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumours (GISTs) — Very rare tumours in the muscle or connective tissue of the rectal wall. Require specialised surgical treatment by an experienced Rectal Cancer Surgeon in Pune.
- Lymphoma — Cancer that develops in the immune cells of the rectum. Rare and treated differently from standard rectal cancer.
Stages of Rectal Cancer
- Stage 0 — Cancer is only in the innermost lining of the rectum. Fully curable with surgery alone.
- Stage 1 — Cancer has grown into the rectal wall but not reached lymph nodes. Surgery gives excellent results. 5-year survival rate: 80% to 90%.
- Stage 2 — Cancer has grown through the rectal wall and may have reached nearby organs. Chemoradiation before surgery is usually recommended.
- Stage 3 — Cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes. Treatment involves chemoradiation, surgery, and adjuvant chemotherapy. 5-year survival rate: 40% to 60%.
- Stage 4 — Cancer has spread to distant organs like the liver or lungs. Dr. Chirag Bhirud offers Cytoreductive Surgery and targeted therapy for selected Stage 4 patients in Pune.
No matter what stage you are at, Dr. Chirag Bhirud — a trusted Rectal Cancer Specialist in Pune — will create the most effective treatment plan for you. Book your appointment at Jupiter Hospital, Baner, Pune today.
Who is at Risk for Rectal Cancer?
Certain individuals have a higher risk of developing rectal cancer. You may be at risk if you:
- Are above 50 years of age
- Have a personal or family history of rectal or colon cancer
- Have been previously diagnosed with colorectal polyps
- Have inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) — ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease
- Carry inherited gene mutations linked to colorectal cancer
- Follow a diet low in fibre and high in processed or red meat
- Are overweight, obese, or physically inactive
- Smoke or consume alcohol regularly
If you belong to any of these groups, Dr. Chirag Bhirud — a leading Cancer Specialist in PCMC and Pune — strongly recommends regular colorectal screening for early detection.
How We Diagnose Rectal Cancer?
Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective rectal cancer treatment. For patients seeking Rectal Cancer Diagnosis in Pune, Dr. Chirag Bhirud uses the following advanced diagnostic methods at Jupiter Hospital, Baner, Pune:
- Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) — a simple physical examination to feel any abnormal growths
- Colonoscopy — the gold standard test to visualise the rectum and colon and detect polyps or tumours
- Biopsy — tissue sample taken during colonoscopy to confirm cancer
- MRI of the Pelvis — the most important scan for rectal cancer staging and surgical planning
- CT Scan of the Chest, Abdomen, and Pelvis — to check if cancer has spread
- PET Scan — to detect metastasis in distant organs
- Endorectal Ultrasound (ERUS) — to assess the depth of tumour invasion
- Blood tests — including CEA tumour marker levels
A thorough and accurate diagnosis helps Dr. Chirag Bhirud plan the most effective, personalised rectal cancer treatment for each patient.
Rectal Cancer Treatment Options:
The treatment of rectal cancer depends on the stage, size, and location of the tumour — as well as the patient’s overall health. Dr. Chirag Bhirud, a skilled Rectal Cancer Surgeon in Pune, creates a personalised treatment plan for every patient at Jupiter Hospital, Baner, Pune.
Rectal Cancer Surgery in Pune
Surgery is the primary and most effective treatment for rectal cancer. Dr. Chirag Bhirud specialises in advanced surgical techniques that aim to remove the cancer completely while preserving quality of life.
Low Anterior Resection (LAR) in Pune: Low Anterior Resection is the most commonly performed surgery for rectal cancer located in the upper and middle rectum. Dr. Chirag Bhirud removes the cancerous portion of the rectum while preserving normal bowel function. Most patients do not need a permanent colostomy after LAR.
Abdominoperineal Resection (APR) in Pune: Abdominoperineal Resection is recommended for low-lying rectal tumours located very close to the anus. Dr. Chirag Bhirud removes the rectum and anus completely and creates a permanent colostomy. This surgery is carefully considered only when sphincter preservation is not possible.
Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery (TEM): TEM is a minimally invasive procedure used for early-stage rectal tumours. Dr. Chirag Bhirud removes the tumour directly through the anus using a specialised endoscope — no external incisions are needed. It offers faster recovery and minimal discomfort for eligible patients.
Robotic Rectal Cancer Surgery in Pune: Dr. Chirag Bhirud performs Robotic-Assisted Rectal Cancer Surgery using the Da Vinci Robot System at Jupiter Hospital, Baner, Pune. The narrow pelvic space makes rectal surgery technically demanding — robotic technology gives Dr. Chirag Bhirud superior precision and control.
Benefits of Robotic Rectal Surgery:
- Highly precise tumour removal in the narrow pelvic area
- Smaller incisions and minimal scarring
- Less blood loss during surgery
- Shorter hospital stay and faster recovery
- Better preservation of bladder and sexual function
Dr. Chirag Bhirud is one of the very few Rectal Cancer Surgeons in Pune trained in Robotic Rectal Surgery.
Laparoscopic Rectal Cancer Surgery: Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive approach where Dr. Chirag Bhirud operates through small keyhole incisions. It offers reduced post-operative pain, shorter hospital stay, and a quicker return to normal life compared to open surgery.
Radiation Therapy for Rectal Cancer: Radiation therapy is commonly used before surgery — called neoadjuvant therapy — to shrink the rectal tumour and reduce the risk of recurrence. It may also be given after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells. Dr. Chirag Bhirud works closely with radiation oncologists at Jupiter Hospital to plan the most effective radiation schedule for each patient.
Chemotherapy for Rectal Cancer: Chemotherapy is often combined with radiation — called chemoradiation — before rectal cancer surgery to improve outcomes. It may also be given after surgery as adjuvant therapy to reduce the risk of cancer returning. Common chemotherapy drugs used for rectal cancer include Capecitabine, 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU), and FOLFOX.
Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy: Targeted Therapy — Targeted therapy drugs specifically attack the proteins or gene mutations that help rectal cancer cells grow. Bevacizumab and Cetuximab are commonly used for advanced rectal cancer.
Immunotherapy — Immunotherapy is used for rectal cancers with specific genetic markers such as MSI-H (Microsatellite Instability-High) or mismatch repair deficiency (dMMR). It helps the body’s own immune system recognise and destroy cancer cells. Dr. Chirag Bhirud offers immunotherapy for eligible patients as part of a precision medicine approach.
Managing Side Effects and Quality of Life:
We understand that cancer treatment affects more than your body—it impacts your energy, emotions, and lifestyle. That’s why we offer holistic support including:
- Nutritional counseling
- Physiotherapy and pelvic health rehabilitation
- Counseling and emotional support
Our goal is to help you maintain your dignity, strength, and well-being throughout treatment and recovery.
Rectal Cancer Survival Rate in India
Rectal cancer survival rates depend on the stage at which it is diagnosed. Early detection significantly improves outcomes.
Dr. Chirag Bhirud, a trusted Rectal Cancer Surgeon in Pune, has performed 200+ minimally invasive colorectal surgeries with a 95% success rate at Jupiter Hospital, Baner, Pune. His expertise in sphincter-preserving techniques and Robotic Rectal Cancer Surgery ensures the best possible outcomes for every patient.
Early-stage rectal cancer is highly curable. If you notice any symptoms, do not delay — consult Dr. Chirag Bhirud immediately.
Rectal Cancer Screening in Pune
Rectal cancer often has no symptoms in the early stages. Regular screening is the most effective way to detect it before it becomes serious.
Dr. Chirag Bhirud recommends the following screening methods:
- Colonoscopy — The gold standard test. Examines the entire colon and rectum. Recommended every 10 years for adults above 45.
- Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) — A quick physical examination to detect any abnormal growths near the rectum.
- Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) — A simple stool test to detect hidden blood. Recommended annually.
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy — Examines the lower part of the colon and rectum every 5 years.
- MRI Pelvis — Recommended if any abnormality is detected on other tests.
Who should get screened?
- Adults above 45 years — even without symptoms
- Anyone with a family history of rectal or colon cancer
- Patients with Lynch syndrome or FAP gene mutations
- Those with inflammatory bowel disease
Book a rectal cancer screening consultation with Dr. Chirag Bhirud at Jupiter Hospital, Baner, Pune. Early detection can save your life.
Diet and Lifestyle Tips After Rectal Cancer Surgery
Recovery after rectal cancer surgery depends greatly on diet and lifestyle changes. Dr. Chirag Bhirud advises all his patients to follow these healthy habits:
- Eat small, frequent meals — 5 to 6 times a day for better digestion
- Choose high-fibre foods — fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lentils
- Stay well hydrated — drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water daily
- Avoid spicy, fried, and processed foods
- Limit red meat and alcohol completely
- Quit smoking — it increases the risk of cancer recurrence
- Begin light physical activity as advised — walking is a great starting point
- Manage stress through yoga, meditation, or counselling
- Never miss your follow-up appointments and routine scans
A healthy post-surgery lifestyle is just as important as the surgery itself. It significantly reduces the chances of rectal cancer returning.
Can Rectal Cancer Be Prevented?
While rectal cancer cannot always be prevented, the following lifestyle changes significantly reduce the risk:
- Eat a high-fibre diet — include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lentils daily
- Limit red meat and processed meats — sausages, bacon, and red meat increase rectal cancer risk
- Exercise regularly — even 30 minutes of walking daily reduces risk
- Maintain a healthy weight — obesity is a known risk factor
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol — both significantly increase rectal cancer risk
- Get screened regularly — especially after age 45 or if you have risk factors
- Know your family history — share it with your doctor for personalised risk assessment
If you have risk factors for rectal cancer, consult Dr. Chirag Bhirud — a trusted Rectal Cancer Specialist in Pune — for a personalised prevention and screening plan.
How Much Does Rectal Cancer Treatment Cost in Pune?
Rectal cancer treatment cost in Pune varies depending on several factors:
- Stage and location of the tumour within the rectum
- Type of surgery — robotic, laparoscopic, or open
- Whether chemoradiation is needed before or after surgery
- Duration of hospital stay and ICU care if required
- Post-operative medicines, stoma care, and follow-up tests
At Jupiter Hospital, Baner, Pune, Dr. Chirag Bhirud ensures every patient receives world-class rectal cancer treatment at transparent, reasonable costs. Our team assists with health insurance claims and documentation to make the process as smooth as possible.
For a personalised cost estimate, please book a consultation with Dr. Chirag Bhirud today.
Why Choose Dr. Chirag Bhirud for Rectal Cancer Treatment in Pune?
Rectal cancer surgery demands exceptional precision and experience because of the complex anatomy of the pelvic region. Dr. Chirag Bhirud is one of the most trusted Cancer Surgeons in Pune for rectal cancer. Here is why patients choose him:
- 17+ years of experience as a Surgical Oncologist in Pune
- Expert Rectal Cancer Specialist in Pune
- Specialised in sphincter-preserving techniques to maintain bowel function
- 95% success rate with 10,000+ patients treated
- Award winner — Best Oral Paper (ISO 2019) and Best Poster (ISO-ISMPO 2019)
- Published oncosurgical researcher with 20+ national conference participations
- Compassionate, patient-first approach at every stage of cancer treatment
Book an Appointment with Dr. Chirag Bhirud
If you or your loved one is experiencing symptoms of rectal cancer or has been diagnosed with the condition, do not delay expert medical care. Book an Appointment with Dr. Chirag Bhirud, a trusted Rectal Cancer Surgeon and Surgical Oncologist in Pune, for accurate diagnosis, personalised treatment planning, and advanced cancer care.
Dr. Chirag Bhirud consults at Jupiter Hospital, Baner, Pune, and provides comprehensive care for rectal cancer using modern surgical techniques and a patient-centred approach.
Call 7028373574 to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards effective Rectal Cancer Treatment in Pune.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
In many cases, fertility can be preserved—but it depends on the treatment type. Speak to your oncologist early about fertility preservation options.
This varies by the surgery type and your recovery. Many patients return to light work in 4–6 weeks, with full recovery in a few months.
Not always. Dr. Chirag Bhirud specialises in sphincter-preserving surgeries such as Low Anterior Resection (LAR), which avoids the need for a permanent colostomy in most cases. A temporary stoma may be created and reversed after recovery. Each case is evaluated individually.
Follow-up care, a healthy lifestyle, regular screenings, and staying in touch with your specialist all help reduce recurrence risk.
Yes, especially if you’re under 50 or have a family history. Genetic testing helps guide treatment and identify if others in your family may be at risk.
You can book an appointment by calling +91 70283 73574, emailing bhirudcancercare@gmail.com, or visiting www.drchiragbhirud.com. The clinic is at 1st Floor, OPD 4, Jupiter Hospital, Baner-Balewadi Road, near Prathamesh Park, Pune – 411069. Open 24 hours.