Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery

Penn’s Colon and Rectal Surgery Program specializes in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of colon and rectal conditions. Our surgeons and advanced practice providers work closely with each person for individualized care plans. Penn’s colon and rectal surgeons and team members are recognized nationally and internationally for their clinical, scientific, and education contributions.

Clinical Care

Our program offers patients with diverse problems, including:

Colon Cancer, Rectum and Anus Cancers
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis)
Disorders of the pelvic floor
Diverticular disease
Problems with incontinence and prolapse
Hemorrhoids
Fissures and Fistulas

Surgical Expertise

Penn Medicine’s colon and rectal surgeons are highly skilled in specific surgical techniques including robotic surgery and minimally-invasive surgery, as well as sphincter (anal)-preserving colon and rectal surgery and surgery for fecal incontinence.

Comprehensive Cancer Care

The interdisciplinary colon and rectal cancer program is comprised of colon and rectal specialist surgeons, medical oncologists, gastroenterologists, radiation oncologists, a nurse navigator and many more. As part of the Abramson Cancer Center patients have access to advanced radiation therapy options, chemotherapy and biologic therapies, clinical trials and support services for full-spectrum cancer care and long-term care.

Diagnosis & Testing

Colon and Rectal Cancer is the second most common cancer in the United States among men and women. The disease is potentially curable if diagnosed in early stages. Colorectal conditions are most often diagnosed using:

Anoscopy and Proctoscopy
Diagnostic Colonoscopy
Endorectal/Endoanal (Ultrasound)
Flexibile Sigmoidoscopy
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Genetic evaluation and counseling for hereditary colon and rectal cancer syndromes