Colon Cancer Recurrence After Surgery: Risks, Factors & What to Watch For

Yes, colon cancer can return after surgery. This is because there may be some cancer cells that were not removed during surgery or that developed after surgery. The risk of colon cancer returning depends on a number of factors, including the stage of the cancer, the type of surgery that was performed, and the patient's overall health.

Colon cancer can return in either the colon or rectum, or it can spread to other parts of the body, such as the liver, lungs, or lymph nodes. If colon cancer returns, it is usually treated with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, or targeted therapy.

It is important for patients who have had colon cancer surgery to follow up with their doctor regularly to check for any signs of the cancer returning. Follow-up care may include blood tests, stool tests, colonoscopies, and other imaging tests.