Colon Cancer Dictionary

laparoscopy: Early colon cancer is removed with the aid of a thin, lighted tube (laparoscope). Three or four tiny cuts are made into the abdomen. The surgeon sees inside the abdomen with the laparoscope. The tumor and part of the healthy colon are removed. Nearby lymph nodes also may be removed.

leucovorin: Usedin combination with other drugs to reduce the chemotherapeutic side-effects of the other drug(s).

local therapy: Surgery and radiation therapy are local therapies. They remove or destroy cancer in or near the colon or rectum.

metastasis: The movement or spreading of cancer cells from one organ or tissue to another. Cancer cells usually spread through the bloodstream or the lymph system.