EMU Health Services provides expert care in a range of specialties for your comprehensive health needs. 

What Does a Colorectal Surgeon Do?

This surgeon handles the diagnosis and treatment of problems that affect your colon, anus, and rectum. Surgery in this area can treat colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, and lower digestive tract problems. Your surgeon may perform a colonoscopy, which is a diagnostic procedure that examines the interior of your colon for signs of polyps, tumors, and other diseased tissue. In most cases, if your surgeon sees polyps during a diagnostic procedure, they can be removed immediately or dye can be used to mark them for later removal or more invasive surgery. 

Colorectal surgeons can also remove hemorrhoids, which are painful internal or external inflamed tissue resulting from swollen veins. In some cases, patients may need removal of part or all of the colon due to cancer or other conditions. Rectal fissures, small tears in the anal lining, fistulas, abnormal connections between your rectum and skin near the anus, or a prolapse can also require surgical intervention. Depending on your condition, your surgeon can use minimally invasive techniques that allow you to recover faster and have less pain.

What Are Signs You Need to Visit for Treatment?

Clear signs that you need colorectal care include persistent changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, chronic abdominal pain, and cramping. Look out for unexplained weight loss and lingering weakness and fatigue. If your bowel movements have begun to result in fecal incontinence or narrow stools, it may also be a sign of a problem that requires medical intervention.

Rectal bleeding can sometimes signal cancer. However, it can also result from fistulas or painful hernias. In addition to surgery we can also advise on lifestyle changes that can prevent some colon or rectum issues, like dietary changes that include more fiber, more water, weight loss to reduce pressure on the area and not sitting for prolonged periods.

Find a Colorectal Surgeon Near You Today

At EMU Health Services, we can help you correct disease, pain, and chronic disorders in your colon, rectum, or anal area. For more information, contact EMU Specialty Care Center at 718-850-4368 or the Ambulatory Surgical Center at 718- 849-8700 .