1. Pathway for patients with suspected colorectal cancer
Maximum Wait (days)
Pathway for patients with suspected colorectal cancer
Referral received in secondary care
14 days
First Seen
Straight to test
Colorectal Diagnostic Service
Colonoscopy +/- biopsy
Flexible sigmoidoscopy 14
Provide information and appropriate level of psychological support throughout the patient journey
Colorectal cancer clinically or histologically probable? No
Provide patient with information and remove from Cancer Pathway
16-18 years old – refer to Paediatric Oncology (GNCC) for treatment and TYA MDT for discussion
19-24 years old – continue on tumour site specific pathway & refer to TYA MDT for discussion.
See TYA pathway
Yes
Holistic assessment and rehabilitation consideration
CT chest abdomen/pelvis
MRI pelvis
EUA
USS
Endo anal U/S
Staging Investigations
Allocate Colorectal CNS
Inform patient’s GP of Serious Diagnosis
17 days
MDT review of results,
plan treatment and consider suitability for clinical trials
See Colorectal Rehabilitation Care Pathway liaise and involve healthcare professionals as required
Inter Provider Transfer
Network Best Practice 31
Outpatient appointment to discuss results and agree treatment options
15 days
Decision to Treat 46
16 days
First Treatment
Chemotherapy
Radiotherapy
Surgical Resection
Supportive Palliative Care 62
Restaging CT/MRI
MDT review of treatment plan and consideration for clinical trials
Earliest Clinically Appropriate Date (ECAD)
For commencement of subsequent treatment
Appropriate after care
Colorectal Cancer Pathway [final]