APR vs Chemoradiotherapy

Hi 

Difficult decisions for sure . I am sorry I can’t help but going to pop it back up to the top for others to see !

Our helpline staff would also be happy to chat through the implications. 0808 808 0000.They can access Macmillan nurses if you wish .

Take care ,

Court 

https://community.macmillan.org.uk/cancer_experiences/ask_the_expert

There is also an “ask and expert “ section here and they might be able to give you some information! 
take care,

Court 

Hi Pandarev

i was diagnosed with low ractal cancer T3bN2 (4.5cm) last December, and was recommended to have chemo and radiation before surgery to try and shrink the tumour, before an APR. There is a 10-12% chance of the tumour disappearing completely from chemo alone. I am one of the lucky ones ie it disappeared and no APR needed. I know there is still a one in theee chance of it coming back within the next year or two, but if it does I will have the op and the outcome is no different. I am now on close monitoring.  The only difference to you is that I had the stoma first, and there is a possibility of reversal once I have got through the next year without the tumour returning. Do have a look at my profile. I know it doesn’t happen for everyone, but i think it is worth a try! Even if the tumour doesn’t disappear, the chemo and radiation usually shrink it and then the APR is easier for the surgeon to do without complications. Also, after APR,  people often have to have mop-up chemo, so I felt I might as well have it first.

Hopefully your surgeon and oncologist have given you all the pros and cons and will help you come to the right decision for you. Sending you best wishes x

Thanks for this. And good to know about the helpline and ‘ask the expert’

Thank you for this. Wonderful to hear how things are working out for you.  I’ve got further appointments with both the surgeon and the oncologist and there’s no pressure to make a quick decision.  Im trying to process things gradually- and it’s good to hear a positive story like yours.  I’m 60, have no symptoms, and the cancer was found through the bowel screening programme.