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Rectal Cancer

At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott offers specialized, compassionate care for rectal cancer. Our team uses advanced diagnostics, minimally invasive treatments and personalized support to improve outcomes, reduce side effects and help you regain health and confidence. Early detection matters.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Memorial hermann
Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Scott Liu

About the Expert

Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Age 50 or older
  • Family history of colorectal or rectal cancer
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's)
  • High-fat, low-fiber diet
  • Physical inactivity
  • Smoking or heavy alcohol use
  • Inherited syndromes (Lynch syndrome, FAP)

Signs and Symptoms

  • Often no symptoms in early stages
  • Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
  • Narrow or pencil-thin stools
  • Abdominal pain, cramps or discomfort
  • Frequent or urgent need to have a bowel movement
  • Unintended weight loss
  • Fatigue or weakness

How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Rectal Cancer?

Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Physical Exam

He reviews your symptoms (rectal bleeding, changes in stool caliber, pain), family history of colorectal cancer, and performs a digital rectal exam.

Colonoscopy and Biopsy

A full colonoscopy allows direct visualization of the rectum and biopsy of any suspicious growths.

Imaging Studies

  • Pelvic MRI to evaluate tumor size, local invasion, and relationship to surrounding structures.
  • CT scan of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis to check for lymph node involvement or distant metastases.
  • Endorectal ultrasound (ERUS) to assess the depth of tumor penetration and nodal status.

Laboratory Tests

Measurement of the CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen) tumor marker provides a baseline for staging and monitoring treatment response.

Advanced Testing (if needed)

In select cases, PET/CT or genetic profiling (e.g., MSI testing) helps refine staging and guide personalized therapy.

Dr. Scott
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for rectal cancer.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
  • Cut back on red and processed meats
  • Take short walks each day to stay active
  • Manage stress with support groups or counseling

2. Medications

  • Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells
  • Targeted therapies tailored to tumor types
  • Medications to control pain, nausea, and side effects

3. Minimally Invasive and Advanced Procedures

  • Laparoscopic or robotic surgery to remove tumors
  • Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) for small growths
  • Radiation therapy when indicated to shrink tumors
Scott Liu

About the Expert

Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ICD-10 code for rectal cancer?

The ICD-10 code for rectal cancer is C20.

What is the survival rate for rectal cancer?

The overall 5-year survival rate is about 64%. If caught early (stage I or II), survival can exceed 90%.

Can stage 4 rectal cancer be treated?

Yes. Treatment for stage 4 rectal cancer-including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and surgery-can extend life and improve quality of life, though the 5-year survival rate is lower (around 14-20%).

How can I catch rectal cancer early?

A colonoscopy is the gold standard for early detection. Annual or biennial FIT (fecal immunochemical test) stool tests can also help identify cancer at an early, more treatable stage.

Can diet help prevent rectal cancer recurrence?

Yes. A diet high in fiber (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) and low in red or processed meats may lower the risk of recurrence. Maintaining a healthy weight and regular exercise also help.

Does Dr. Scott offer minimally invasive surgery?

Yes. Dr. Scott performs laparoscopic and robotic resections, as well as transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) for selected early-stage tumors to minimize side effects and speed recovery.

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