[After care in colorectal cancer].

The poor results of nonsurgical cancer therapy in locally recurring colorectal carcinoma and its metastases urge for an early diagnosis of these complications. Serial CEA-levels are the most promising tool to detect even preclinical tumour-growth. Because the incidence of tumor recurrence or metastases is highest in the first and second year after surgery the follow-up of the patients should be as close as possible during this time.