Colorectal Care

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Several common digestive conditions can be caused by problems in the colon or rectum. These issues range from functional disorders to structural disorders, which can affect bowel movements and cause pain, discomfort and bleeding. Colorectal surgeons work closely with gastroenterologists and other specialists to provide supportive care for colorectal conditions such as:

Hemorrhoids, fissures and fistula
Inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
Diverticular disease
Colon polyps
Colonic inertia
Intestinal injuries or blocks
Colon motility problems, such as chronic constipation or bowel incontinence
Colon and rectal cancer

Function of the Colon and Rectum

The colon, also called the large intestine, absorbs water and minerals from digested food as it's processed into stool and passes to the rectum. A healthy colon, which appears smooth and free of polyps, ulcers or small pouches where stool can collect, provides an ideal environment for the final stages of digestion.

Colon Polyps

Anyone can develop a colon polyp, which is a small cluster of cells that forms on the lining of the colon. While most polyps are harmless, some can develop into colon cancer, which is often fatal when discovered in later stages.

Because polyps rarely cause symptoms, it’s important to have regular screenings such as a colonoscopy. Most polyps can be safely removed when found in early stages. You should be screened regularly for polyps if you are 50 or older, suffer from an inflammatory bowel disease or have a family history of colon cancer. Some people do experience symptoms with colon polyps. These symptoms can include:

Rectal bleeding
Change in stool color
Change in bowel habits
Pain or cramps
Iron deficiency anemia

You may need to see a doctor if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms and have ruled out possible causes such as a change in diet or medications, stress or illness.

Colorectal Surgery

More than 600,000 colorectal surgeries are preformed across the U.S. each year. Surgeons at Physicians Regional Medical Group use minimally invasive surgical techniques whenever possible. These procedures include laparoscopic and robotic surgery, which typically offer smaller incisions and scars, less pain and can lead to faster recovery than traditional, open approach surgery.

Robotic Colon Surgery

When conditions allow, surgeons may utilize the assistance of a robotic system which provides greater precision and control compared to traditional, open surgery. A robotic arm and advanced imagery allow doctors to perform maneuvers in tighter spaces that would be impossible with the human hand alone. Data shows that using a robotic assistant during a colectomy can result in patients experiencing a faster recovery with less pain, blood loss and risk of infection.