Explore General SurgeryColorectal Surgery
Specialize Colorectal Surgery
At UConn Health, we have fellowship-trained surgeons who specialize in diagnosing and treating colorectal conditions. Whatever your health problem, we’re here to help.
Our expert surgeons routinely perform a wide range of procedures, such as inflammatory bowel disease surgery, bowel resections, colon resections, colostomies, and hemorrhoid removals. They also perform more complex colorectal techniques and sphincter-sparing robotic surgery.
What Conditions Do Colorectal Surgeons Treat?
Not all conditions of the lower digestive tract require surgery. But when surgical intervention is the best option, our colorectal surgeons are ready with a broad range of surgical procedures designed to treat conditions affecting the colon, rectum, anus, pelvic floor, and small intestine.
Some common conditions we treat with surgery include:
- Colon and rectal cancer and colon polyps
- Inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
- Diverticulitis and diverticular disease
- Anal problems such as hemorrhoids, fistula, and fissures
- Motility problems of the colon, such as constipation
What Type of Surgery Do We Perform?
Colorectal surgeons are general surgeons who have completed specialized training in the surgical care of colon and rectum conditions. They perform classic open surgery and complex minimally invasive surgery, including robotic-assisted surgery.
They are trained in specific techniques, including laparoscopic surgery, robotic surgery, intraoperative radiation therapy, transanal endoscopic microsurgery, transanal total mesorectal excision, and sacral nerve stimulation for fecal incontinence.
Colorectal surgeons at UConn Health routinely perform the following surgical interventions:
- Right hemicolectomy to remove of the right side of the colon
- Left hemicolectomy to remove the left side of the colon
- Subtotal colectomy to remove most of the colon
- Low anterior resection to remove the rectum
- Abdominoperineal resection to remove the distal colon, rectum and anal sphincter
A Multidisciplinary Approach
Colorectal surgeons at UConn Health work closely with other prominent specialists in gastroenterology, radiology, and medical and radiation oncology to ensure a collaborative approach to patient care. We are here to take care of every aspect of your health.
What To Expect Before & After Surgery?
Your surgeon will provide detailed instructions on preparing for your colorectal surgery.
- Depending on the exact procedure you will be having, you may be asked to eat light food the day before surgery or not eat any food at all
- You may need to use a laxative (a medication to help you empty your bowels) before the surgery
- You shouldn’t smoke or consume alcohol for a few days before surgery
After the surgery, you may have to stay at the hospital for up to six days. You will likely be able to move, eat, and drink the day after surgery. After being discharged from the hospital, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions for at-home care and take enough time to heal.