Consult Colorectal Surgeons Online (21 doctors)

What is Colorectal Surgery?

Colorectal surgery is a medical speciality that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the colon and rectum. This field of medicine is concerned with the surgical management of conditions affecting the lower gastrointestinal tract, including the colon, rectum, and anus.

A colorectal surgeon specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the colon and rectum. These specialists are highly trained medical professionals who have expertise in both general surgery and gastrointestinal surgery. They are skilled in the use of minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopy, to treat a wide range of colorectal conditions.

Who is a Colorectal Surgeon?

A colorectal surgeon is a medical professional who specialises in diseases of the colon and rectum. These specialists are highly trained physicians who have completed a residency in general surgery, followed by additional training in colorectal surgery. They are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the lower gastrointestinal tract.

When Should You Consult a Colorectal Surgeon?

There are several situations in which you may need to consult a colorectal surgeon.

These include:
- Chronic constipation or diarrhoea
- Abdominal pain
- Rectal bleeding
- Hemorrhoids
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Diverticulitis
- Colorectal cancer

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention from a qualified healthcare provider. A colorectal surgeon can help diagnose your condition and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

What Medical Conditions Do Colorectal Surgeons Treat?

Colorectal surgeons treat a wide range of medical conditions affecting the lower gastrointestinal tract. These conditions include:

- Colon cancer
- Rectal cancer
- Anal cancer
- Diverticulitis
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
- Hemorrhoids
- Fissures
- Fistulas
- Pilonidal cysts
- Rectal prolapse

What Are the Different Types of Procedures Conducted by Colorectal Surgeons?

Colorectal surgeons use a variety of surgical techniques to treat disorders of the colon and rectum. These techniques include:

• Open surgery: This involves making a large incision in the abdomen to access the colon or rectum.
• Laparoscopic surgery: This is a minimally invasive technique that involves making small incisions in the abdomen and using a tiny camera to guide the surgical instruments.
• Robotic surgery: This is a type of laparoscopic surgery that uses robotic technology to enhance the precision and accuracy of surgical instruments.
• Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM): This is a minimally invasive technique that involves inserting a small camera into the rectum to guide the surgical instruments.

The type of procedure used will depend on the specific condition being treated and the individual needs of each patient.

How Can I Consult a Colorectal Surgeon?

If you are experiencing symptoms related to your colon or rectum, you should consult your primary care physician or gastroenterologist. They may refer you to a colorectal surgeon for further evaluation and treatment.

When you meet with a colorectal surgeon, they will perform a thorough evaluation of your medical history and symptoms. They may order additional tests, such as imaging studies or colonoscopy, to help diagnose your condition.

Once your condition has been diagnosed, your colorectal surgeon will work with you to develop an individualised treatment plan. This may involve medication, lifestyle changes, or surgery, depending on the nature and severity of your condition.

The Role of Colon and Rectal Surgeons in Healthcare

Colon and rectal surgeons play an important role in healthcare by providing specialised care for conditions affecting the lower gastrointestinal tract. Their expertise in both general surgery and gastrointestinal surgery allows them to provide comprehensive care for patients with complex colorectal conditions.

If you are experiencing symptoms related to your colon or rectum, it is important to seek medical attention from a qualified healthcare provider. A colorectal surgeon can help diagnose your condition and develop an appropriate treatment plan to help you achieve the best possible outcome.