Colon and rectal surgery
Leaders in colon and rectal surgical care
Colon and rectal surgeons and team members at Penn Medicine are recognized nationally and internationally for their clinical, scientific, and educational contributions to colorectal surgery and the conditions it cares for. All have completed fellowship training in Colon and Rectal Surgery and are board-certified by the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery.
Our program treats patients with diverse problems, including cancer of the colon, rectum, and anus, inflammatory bowel disease (IBS), problems with incontinence and prolapse, diverticular disease, and more.
Colorectal conditions we treat
Collaborative diagnostics for optimal colorectal outcomes
We also believe that the most important way to ensure quality diagnosis, staging, and aftercare is to collaborate with other specialists. That’s why our entire team — surgeons, gastroenterologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, nurses, etc. — meets on a weekly basis to discuss our patients and determine the best course of treatment, together.
Colon and rectal conditions are most often diagnosed using:
A colonoscopy screening test can both detect and treat colorectal polyps and detect colon and rectal cancers. It is also crucial in determining the location of cancers when they do exist. A thin, flexible, lighted scope is inserted and guided into the colon to examine the lining of the colon. This is done as an outpatient procedure with sedation for comfort.
This office procedure uses sound waves to specifically define and stage some rectal cancers. The test may also be used to map the anal sphincters pre-operatively in those with fecal incontinence requiring repair.
Our surgeons work with radiologists to diagnose and treat rectal cancer. A specific rectal-protocol MRI can be performed and interpreted at Penn to ensure the patient is receiving the proper treatment plan for their disease.
Unmatched colon and rectal cancer expertise
The Colorectal Cancer Care clinical specialty is comprised of specialist surgeons, medical oncologists, gastroenterologists, radiation oncologists, and more. At Penn, patients have access to advanced treatments, clinical trials, and support for full-spectrum cancer care.
Experience the Penn difference in colorectal surgery
The colon and rectal surgeons at Penn Medicine believe that good diagnosis and staging complemented by skilled surgery leads to good outcomes. We have expertise in emphasizing sphincter-saving rectal surgery and minimally invasive (laparoscopic/robotic) procedures. Our continued adoption of innovation in surgical techniques and procedures assists us in finding what best fits each patient’s individual condition.
Our doctors
Our providers work with you to plan and deliver exceptional treatment and personalized care.
Locations
Our hospitals, multispecialty medical centers, pharmacies, labs and more offer outstanding, personalized care for patients all across the region.
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Patient stories
Cancer survivor: Learning I had Lynch syndrome ‘saved my life’
Dennis Massimo was only 42 and symptom-free when he was diagnosed with colorectal cancer related to an inherited condition he didn’t realize he had.
A bond of trust, a path to healing
Patti Lyons, the owner of Peace Valley Lavender Farm, was diagnosed with rectal cancer five years ago. Today, she is sharing her story of healing.