What is colorectal surgery?
The colon and rectum form the final part of the digestive tract, absorbing water and storing waste before it leaves the body. Colorectal surgery treats conditions affecting these organs that cannot be managed with medication or endoscopic treatment alone.
- Colon and rectal cancer
- Large or complex polyps that cannot be removed during colonoscopy
- Diverticular disease with complications
- Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis) requiring surgery
- Rectal prolapse and other structural conditions
- Bowel obstruction
Who might need it?
Whether surgery is needed depends on the specific condition, its severity and how it responds to other treatment. Assessment usually includes colonoscopy, imaging and, for cancer, staging scans, with the plan made after a thorough clinical evaluation and, where relevant, discussion by a multidisciplinary team.
Recovery
Recovery depends on the operation performed and the underlying condition. The care team supports the return of normal bowel function and a gradual return to eating and activity.
Where suitable, this may be carried out using minimally invasive techniques. See Minimally Invasive Surgery.
Frequently asked questions
Is colorectal surgery only for cancer?
No. Colorectal surgery treats a range of conditions, including cancer, large polyps, diverticular disease, inflammatory bowel disease, rectal prolapse and bowel obstruction.
What does a colorectal surgeon do differently from a general surgeon?
A colorectal surgeon has focused training and experience in conditions of the colon, rectum and anus, including complex cancer surgery and minimally invasive and robotic techniques for these organs.
Are minimally invasive options available?
In many cases, yes. Laparoscopic and robotic techniques are used for a wide range of colorectal operations, depending on the condition and individual factors.