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 at GI Alliance can refer you to a colorectal surgeon to address any number of gastrointestinal issues. Your colorectal surgeon can 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. 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. Both specialists can be found in GI Alliance’s network.
Advanced options for colorectal surgery
Should you need a colorectal surgeon, you can find one in GI Alliance’s extensive network. We are the nation’s leading physician-led network of gastrointestinal specialists, and our aim is to put patients first. If you are in need of colorectal surgery, please contact GI Alliance today.