Colorectal Surgeons: Conditions Treated & When to Seek Care

Colorectal surgeons specialize in surgical and non-surgical treatment of colon, rectal, and anal conditions.

Common Reasons for Referral

• Colorectal cancer: Screening, diagnosis, resection.
• Benign colorectal disease: Diverticulitis, IBD (Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis), polyps, rectal prolapse, hemorrhoids.
• Pelvic floor disorders: Fecal incontinence, rectocele, anismus.
• Anorectal conditions: Fistulas, fissures, pilonidal cysts, abscesses.
• Trauma: Colon/rectal injuries from accidents or violence.
• Screening/surveillance: High-risk patients (family history, polyposis syndromes).

When to See One

• Rectal bleeding (bright or dark), change in bowel habits, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss.
• Positive colonoscopy findings requiring surgical management.
• Chronic anorectal symptoms unresponsive to conservative care.

Early referral improves outcomes, especially for cancer. Many conditions are treatable with minimally invasive techniques (laparoscopic, robotic, transanal).