We’re a leader in the colorectal cancer fight.
Delaware’s colorectal cancer rate has rapidly declined in recent years, thanks in part to the increased screening rate in the state, which is higher than the national average. In 2012, Delaware eliminated racial disparity in screening and diagnosis.
Colorectal cancer—including colon cancer and rectal cancer—if caught early is highly curable. We’re proud to be among less than 50 health systems nationally to be an accredited rectal cancer program. This means our commitment to delivering high-quality care is second to none.
Our experts use the most progressive techniques to treat these diseases. As with other cancer treatment, we use a multidisciplinary approach, involving any specialists necessary to create the best treatment plan for every patient
Screenings
Free screenings are available for patients who qualify based on annual income.
Diagnostic Technology
Colonoscopy
After you are mildly sedated, physicians insert a narrow tube with a camera at the end of it through the rectum into the colon to learn if there are any polyps—small growths—present which could one day become cancer. If physicians detect polyps during this procedure, they remove them using an instrument that is incorporated into the diagnostic technology.
Sigmoidoscopy
Physicians insert a narrow tube with a camera at the end of it into the rectum and guide it into the colon to examine the lower part of the colon only. As with a colonoscopy, polyps can be removed with the sigmoidoscopy.
Computerized tomography (CT)
Certified technologists use computer-processed X-rays to generate a scan of your body in “slices” for image accuracy.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
A combination of a magnetic field and radio waves creates three-dimensional images of specific areas of your body to determine if disease or physical anomalies are present.
Positron emission tomography (PET) scan
A small amount of a radioactive substance, known to be absorbed more into cancer cells than normal cells, is injected into a vein. A scanner then “finds” the cells that stand out.
Lymph node biopsy
Surgeons remove part or all of a lymph node so that it can be examined microscopically to determine if cancer cells are present.
Treatment Options
Medical Therapies
Chemotherapy
Specially trained nurses (RNs) deliver intravenous drug therapy through infusion in a series of treatments.
Targeted therapy
This special kind of drug therapy uses a combination of substances to target a specific cancer. These types of therapies can contain antibodies and growth inhibitors.
Radiation Therapy
External beam radiation
High-powered radiation targets the area where the tumor resides. Treatments occur over a period of time and at intervals that are right for the cancer type and stage.
Surgical Innovations
Resection
Surgeons remove part of the colon that is affected by cancer.
Support Groups
Cancer support groups offer cancer patients and their families a way to connect and share experiences.