Hi MDK, I can identify with much of what you are going thru. I have a tumor that is very low and bridges the rectal/anal gap. I haven't yet had my consult with my surgeon but the two oncologist's I have spoken with seem certain that I will need APR and permanent colostomy bag. While I am hoping for ...

I know this is an old post but I tried the Lidocaine(Xylocaine) for rectal pain after BM. Unfortunately it didn't work for me. What did work was Indomethacin suppositories. They come in 50mg and 100mg doses. 50mg last about 4-5 hours for me(240 lbs) which is as long as I need for the pain to settle ...

I'm also a newbie to this site, I advocate the more frequent checkup because, In my case, it resulted in the cancer being found earlier. I had a pre-cancerous polyp removed 6 years ago and then follow-up surgery to remove more tissue from site two years ago. Things still didn't feel right and I got ...

Hi Jgkate, with your history and frequency of re-occurence why not get checked out more frequently? Its your body and your piece of mind. I suppose there might be a cost involved if you get more than your plan covers if you are american (I'm a Canuck), but you seem to disagree with the 3 year freque...

Thanks for the detailed responses rp1954. Now to make sure I'm getting these done. Is there a "standard" set of tests or is there just too many variables for that to happen? What are the oncologists looking for in the initial bloodwork?

Hello CRguy, I might end up in Vancouver for surgery or Kelowna for radiation. I am being referred to Dr Brown in Vancouver. Surgeon that specializes in rectal/anal procedures.
I live in Salmon Arm so its a bit of a trip in either case although they can do chemo here.

Thanks for the replies. There is so much terminology I need to catch up on. Good thing there is a list of acronyms to refer to. I started out thinking that I wanted to avoid surgery and its complications but(or is it butt?) it appears that surgery is maybe the best option for my condition. I guess I...

I'm waiting for the wheels to get rolling since my dx. MRI is scheduled for Dec 1, 2015. I want to be proactive and not just rely on Dr's advice so what blood tests should I be looking for or asking for to help with treatment plan?

Hello everyone, I am impressed with the content and helpful, compassionate responses on this site. I am still wrapping my head around my diagnosis. I am hoping that someone can answer my questions. 1. Is MRI good for detecting spread to lymph nodes? 2. I'm concerned about the type of surgery involve...