Colorectal Cancer

Colon cancer is the third most common cancer in incidence and the second leading cause of death from cancer, according to the American Cancer Society, but it’s also one of the most preventable. The Colorectal Cancer Program at the Montefiore-Einstein Center for Cancer Care, led by Philip Caushaj, MD, offers patients access to nationally recognized physicians and surgeons who offer superb treatment for all stages of the disease and exceptional skill and experience in the treatment of recurring and advanced cases of colorectal cancer.

A Comprehensive Multidisciplinary Approach

One of the few of its kind worldwide, our Program offers a multidisciplinary approach to the prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer brought to patients by physicians who are leaders in the fields of medical oncology, surgical oncology, gastroenterology and radiation oncology. These skilled experts meet regularly to discuss each case in detail and determine, as a team, the best course of treatment. Their efforts are accompanied by a full range of support services, including strong advocacies in risk assessment, treatment, innovation and research, as well as highly trained and specialized staff for community outreach and education.

A Leader in Research and Treatments

As innovators and leaders, we are making significant, ongoing contributions to the development of preventive therapies and innovative treatments. Working with our research partner, Albert Einstein Cancer Center, a National Cancer Institute-designated Cancer Center, we have the ability to offer the most current clinical trials and advanced therapies to our patients, such as pre-operative chemotherapy and advanced radiation therapy, as well as the full spectrum of laparoscopic and robotic sphincter-saving surgeries, which greatly reduce the likelihood of the need for a colostomy.

Our team of Upper Gastrointestinal and Hepatobiliary physicians works closely with our Colorectal team and has developed innovative and successful techniques for metastatic cancers of the liver from tumors that have spread from the colon or rectum. When standard chemotherapy and surgical intervention have failed, we are able to use sophisticated techniques, including complex liver resections and regional therapies, such as radiofrequency ablation, which uses heat energy to destroy the tumor. We also offer cutting-edge infusion therapies, which allow the delivery of very high doses of chemotherapy directly to the liver, sparing the rest of the body from the side effects typically seen from systemic chemotherapy. Additionally, our team has developed groundbreaking techniques for treating colon and rectal cancer that has spread to the peritoneal cavity.

Through ongoing research studies, we are discovering more options for treating colorectal cancer, as well as preventing it. Experts in our Genetics Program enhance research activities by conducting state-of-the-art risk assessments to determine a patient’s probability of contracting hereditary colorectal cancer and help patients take preventive measures before the disease occurs.

Preventing Colorectal Cancer

Screening and early detection are key factors in ensuring positive outcomes for colorectal cancer. Having been recognized by the city of New York as a leader in our field and a formidable force in colorectal cancer prevention, Montefiore is dedicated to promoting awareness and facilitating risk assessments in the community. We provide education and support to our patients, our community and healthcare professionals across the nation.

Quality of Life for Patients with Colorectal Cancer

We understand a cancer diagnosis or recurrence of cancer can be overwhelming and that each patient’s medical history and condition is unique. Our multidisciplinary team customizes each treatment plan to minimize disruptions caused by the disease and maximize functionality.

The Colorectal Cancer Program at the Montefiore-Einstein Center for Cancer Care is dedicated to offering the most advanced and least invasive treatment solution that will provide the most effective outcome for each patient. It is our goal to have each patient return to the routine of daily life as quickly as possible.