What does a colon and rectal surgeon do?

A colon and rectal surgeon specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the colon, rectum, and anus. They are experts in managing a wide range of issues, including colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), diverticulitis, hemorrhoids, and anal fissures. These surgeons are trained to perform both minimally invasive procedures and complex surgeries, ensuring patients receive the most effective and personalized care.

Colon and Rectal Surgery

The Ochsner Health Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery is conveniently located across South Louisiana in New Orleans, Metairie, Destrehan, Jennings, Lafayette, Crowley, Morgan City, Chalmette, Slidell and Raceland. Our department's renowned surgeons have more than 100 years of combined experience in the surgical treatment of diseases of the small intestine, colon, rectum and anus. Supported by advanced state-of-the art technology available at Ochsner Health, we provide a wide range of services by combining innovative treatments with personal, individualized patient care.

We host numerous cutting-edge clinical research programs developing innovative techniques and treatments. This allows us to offer patients the most advanced options available while preserving world-class outcomes.

These efforts, along with our highly skilled and dedicated staff, make the Ochsner Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery one of the finest colorectal programs in the United States and a premier program in the Gulf South.

Conditions we treat

Our services include minimally invasive and open approaches to the surgical management of routine and complex anorectal disorders including:

Anal cancer
Colorectal cancer
Crohn’s disease
Diverticulitis
Fecal incontinence
Inflammatory bowel disease
Pelvic floor dysfunction
Ulcerative colitis

FAQs

A colon and rectal surgeon specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the colon, rectum, and anus. They are experts in managing a wide range of issues, including colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis, hemorrhoids and anal fissures. These surgeons are trained to perform both minimally invasive procedures and complex surgeries, ensuring patients receive the most effective and personalized care.

Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery and the individual’s overall health. For minimally invasive procedures, such as laparoscopic or robotic-assisted surgery, patients may recover within 2 to 4 weeks. For more extensive surgeries, like open colon resections, recovery can take 6 to 8 weeks or longer. Your surgeon will provide detailed post-operative care instructions to help you heal as quickly and safely as possible.

Yes, colon surgery is considered a major surgery. It often involves removing or repairing parts of the colon or rectum, which are critical components of the digestive system. However, advancements in surgical techniques, such as minimally invasive and robotic-assisted methods, have made these procedures safer and recovery times shorter. Your surgeon will discuss the risks, benefits, and expected outcomes with you to ensure you feel informed and prepared.