This is a subspecialty of surgery that focuses on disorders of the lower GI tract.
Colorectal Surgery
What is a Colorectal Surgeon?
Colorectal surgeons specialize in conditions affecting the large and small intestines, rectum and anus. They are also trained and board-certified general surgeons. Colorectal surgeons often end up treating other organs that directly interact with your GI tract or are affected by the same disease, such as your urinary system, pelvic floor and reproductive system.
When Would You See a Colorectal Surgeon?
If you have symptoms involving your lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract, you might begin by seeing a gastroenterologist (a specialist in gastrointestinal diseases). This doctor may then refer you to a colorectal surgeon if they believe your condition is going to require surgery. You may also be referred to see a colorectal surgeon by your primary care doctor for anorectal diseases such as hemorrhoids and fissures.
What Does a Colorectal Surgeon Do?
A colorectal surgeon uses endoscopic and surgical techniques to treat your GI tract. They can treat you by endoscopy (nonsurgical), with minimally invasive surgery or with open surgery.
Techniques Colorectal Surgeons Use/Perform Include:
- Colonoscopy
- Sigmoidoscopy
- Diagnostic laparoscopy
Procedures Colorectal Surgeons Perform Include:
- Polypectomy
- Colon resection
- Small bowel resection
- Ostomy creation and reversal
- Prolapse repair
- Hemorrhoidectomy
- Hemorrhoid banding
- Perianal fistula surgery
- Fissurectomy/Sphincterotomy
- Colorectal surgery
Routine Diagnostic Tests Colorectal Surgeons Do:
- Digital rectal exams
- Anoscopy
Conditions Colorectal Surgeons Treat
Colorectal surgeons treat anything from colorectal cancer to benign conditions of the large intestine and many things in-between, including:
- Colorectal polyps
- Colorectal cancer
- Diverticulitis
- Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis
- Rectal and pelvic prolapse
- Parastomal hernia
- Hemorrhoids
- Anal fissures
- Anal fistulas
How to Prepare For Your Appointment
There’s not much to do to prepare for your appointment. Be ready to give a detailed account of your symptoms. Plan to provide information about your medical history, as well as your parents and siblings, too. Jot down the list of medications you are currently taking and prepare your questions for the provider.
Meet Our Surgeon
Jianliang (Lucas) Man, MD
Dr. Man completed his fellowship in colon and rectal surgery at Stony Brook University Hospital in Stony Brook, NY. He did his general surgery residency training at Yale New Haven Hospital in New Haven, CT, and earned his medical degree from Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Dr. Man is board-certified in general and colorectal surgery. He is a member of the American Society of Colorectal Surgeons.
How Can We Help?
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Need a little more information? We’re happy to help!