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Colorectal Surgery

Colorectal Surgery

What is Colorectal Surgery?

Colorectal surgery refers to any surgical procedures relating to the colon, rectum, and anus, and is performed by a colorectal surgeon. Most commonly, colorectal surgery is utilized for the treatment of colon/rectal cancer, and the removal of colon polyps. Your gastroenterologist can refer you to a colorectal surgeon to address any number of gastrointestinal issues. Your colorectal surgeon will perform any necessary surgery, or can discuss and utilize non-surgical options.

What Conditions are Treated by Colorectal Surgeons?

Colorectal surgeons treat a wide variety of gastrointestinal concerns. A patient could be referred to a colorectal surgeon for any issue that applies to the gastrointestinal tract, and colorectal surgeons often have a broad skill set, and can recommend colorectal surgery, or non-surgical treatment options. Common conditions that are treated using colorectal surgery include:

Colon and rectal cancer
Treatment for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Hemorrhoids
Anal fissures
Fistulas
Hernias
Diverticulitis
Motility problems of the colon including constipation and incontinence

Other methods of treatment that are addressed non-surgically by colorectal surgeons include pelvic floor physical therapy, non-operative treatment of hemorrhoids, and biofeedback.

What Is The Difference Between A Gastroenterologist And A Colorectal Surgeon?

Both gastroenterologists and colorectal surgeons are physicians that deal with gastrointestinal issues, but there are differences in their education, and daily practices. Gastroenterology is a specialty under the umbrella of internal medicine, and colorectal surgery is a specialty under general surgery. Gastroenterologists focus more on the medical management of their patients following diagnosis, whereas a colorectal surgeon’s main concern is the one time treatment of an issue.