Treated by Dr. Ravi Chandra Reddy Obili at Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy
Rectal cancer develops when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the rectum, the last several inches of the large intestine before the anus. Symptoms may include rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, abdominal discomfort, or unexplained weight loss. Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy evaluates each patient individually to determine the most appropriate treatment plan, which may include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy depending on the stage and location of the cancer.
The most common type, arising from the gland cells lining the rectum. Accounts for the majority of rectal cancers.
Slow-growing tumors that develop from hormone-producing cells in the rectal lining. Often detected incidentally.
Rare tumors that begin in specialized nerve cells in the rectal wall. Behave differently from adenocarcinoma.
Multiple factors can contribute to the development and progression of this condition.
Recognising the signs early gives you more treatment options.
Assessment begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination, including digital rectal examination. Based on initial findings, imaging and laboratory tests help determine the extent of disease. Not every patient requires all investigations; testing is tailored to individual circumstances.
From conservative to surgical — we always start with the least invasive option first.
A structured, patient-first approach from first visit to full recovery.
Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy takes a complete medical history, performs a physical examination including digital rectal examination, and reviews any previous test results to understand the individual situation.
Based on findings, appropriate tests such as colonoscopy with biopsy, imaging scans, and blood work are arranged to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of disease.
The treatment approach is planned according to tumor stage, location, and the patient's overall health. This may involve coordination with medical oncologists and radiation oncologists for combined treatment approaches.
When surgery is recommended, the procedure is tailored to achieve complete tumor removal while preserving as much normal function as possible. Regular follow-up helps monitor recovery and detect any recurrence early.
What to expect at each phase of recovery.
The first few weeks focus on wound healing and managing any immediate side effects from surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation. Activity gradually increases under medical guidance, and dietary adjustments may be needed.
Over the following months, energy levels typically improve and bowel function stabilizes. Patients with colostomies receive training and support for stoma care. Physical strength and daily activities gradually return to normal.
Regular follow-up appointments with colonoscopy, imaging, and blood tests continue for several years. This monitoring helps detect any recurrence early and address ongoing concerns about bowel function or other effects of treatment.
Treatment aims to remove or destroy the cancer and prevent its spread. Early-stage cancers generally have better outcomes, though results vary widely based on individual factors and no specific survival can be guaranteed.
Surgical techniques aim to preserve normal bowel control when possible. However, some patients experience changes in bowel habits, frequency, or urgency that may persist long-term, particularly with lower rectal tumors.
Treatment seeks to balance cancer control with maintaining daily function and quality of life. Some patients require permanent colostomy, which involves adjustments to lifestyle but allows normal activities with appropriate support.
Even with successful treatment, rectal cancer can return. Regular surveillance helps detect recurrence early, but ongoing monitoring is necessary for years after initial treatment.
Untreated rectal cancer continues to grow and spread to nearby tissues and distant organs such as the liver and lungs. As the tumor enlarges, it can cause complete bowel obstruction, severe bleeding, and significant pain. Without treatment, the cancer becomes progressively more difficult to manage and ultimately life-threatening.
Seek medical attention if you notice rectal bleeding, persistent changes in bowel habits, or unexplained abdominal pain that lasts more than a few weeks. Anyone over 50 or with a family history of colorectal cancer should discuss screening options even without symptoms. Early evaluation allows for detection when the cancer is most treatable.
Early treatment means more options and better outcomes. Book a consultation to understand your condition and explore the right path forward.
