What can you do if the chemotherapy does not work?
In the treatment of colon cancer, chemotherapy is used in most cases when all visible parts of the cancer have already been surgically removed. Although the subsequent chemotherapy reduces the risk of recurrence, recurrences can still occur years later, especially in advanced stages. In the treatment of rectal cancer, however, chemotherapy can also take place before surgery.
If this does not result in a noticeable reduction in the size of the tumour, additional radiation can be administered. If the chemotherapy is not successful, it can be discontinued and followed by surgery or palliative therapy. In addition, a switch to other chemotherapeutic agents can be attempted.
