Colorectal surgery is a medical subspecialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases of the colon, rectum, and anus. Although it may be an uncomfortable topic for some, the truth is that these areas of the body perform fundamental functions in digestion, waste elimination, and patients' quality of life.
Colorectal surgery (also known as proctology) is a specialty that encompasses clinical and surgical procedures ranging from hemorrhoids and fissures to colon cancer. Its name originates from the combination of "colo," referring to the colon; "procto," referring to the rectum; and "-logy," meaning the study or science of.
At MDE Care we understand the sensitivity of these consultations. That is why our colorectal specialists provide compassionate support, empathetic care, and clinical protocols that respect your privacy and well-being at all times.
Specialties and subspecialties of colorectal surgery
Although colorectal surgery is part of general surgery, it is closely connected to other disciplines that encompass a more comprehensive approach to treatment:
- Gastroenterology: for the diagnosis and non-surgical treatment of digestive diseases
- Oncology: in cases of colorectal or anal cancer
- Radiology: for diagnostic studies such as colonoscopy, endoanal ultrasound, or CT scan
- Clinical nutrition: to support conditions such as chronic constipation, fecal incontinence, or inflammatory bowel diseases
- Pelvic floor physiotherapy: in cases of muscle weakness or postoperative rehabilitation
What diseases does colorectal surgery treat?
Several conditions can be addressed within this specialty, including:
Hemorrhoids
These are inflamed veins in the anus or lower rectum that may bleed or cause pain. Treatment ranges from dietary changes to outpatient surgery.
Anal fissures
Small tears that appear when straining during bowel movements. They cause sharp pain. They can be treated with creams, sitz baths, or surgery in severe cases.
Anal fistulas
Abnormal connections between the rectum and the nearby skin. They originate from poorly healed infections. Treatment usually requires surgery.
Perianal abscesses
Accumulation of pus caused by an infected gland. They cause pain and swelling. Treated with outpatient drainage.
Fecal incontinence
Loss of sphincter control. It can result from childbirth, previous surgery, or neurological disorders. Management includes physiotherapy or surgery depending on the case.
Chronic constipation
Frequent difficulty or incomplete bowel movements. Requires comprehensive evaluation including nutrition, intestinal transit studies, and personalized treatment.
Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
Inflammatory bowel disorders that can affect the rectum and colon. The colorectal surgeon works alongside the gastroenterologist in their surgical management when necessary.
Colon, rectal, or anal cancer
Early detection, biopsy sampling, oncological surgeries, and postoperative follow-up are essential.
Differences between colorectal surgeons and proctologists
Many people use both terms interchangeably, but there are important differences in the conditions each specialist can address:
What does each treat?
Colorectal surgeon
Proctologist
Anal diseases
✓
✓
Rectal diseases
✓
✓
Colon diseases
✓
✘
Complex digestive surgeries
✓
✘
Coordination with oncology/gastroenterology
✓
✘
Medical training today prefers the use of colorectal surgeon because it encompasses a more complete view of the digestive system.
Common procedures in colorectal surgery
In the specialty of colorectal surgery, several procedures can be performed depending on the patient's needs and condition. However, some are more common than others:
Anoscopy and rectoscopy
These allow visualization of the anal canal and rectum. They are performed in the office, are quick, and well tolerated.
Hemorrhoid ligation
Elastic bands are placed to cut off blood flow to the hemorrhoids. It is an outpatient procedure and nearly painless.
Hemorrhoidectomy
Surgery to remove hemorrhoids. Performed under anesthesia with a short recovery time.
Abscess drainage
A small incision to eliminate accumulated infection. A quick procedure that provides immediate relief.
Fistula surgery
Depending on the location and complexity, an open or closed technique is used, always preserving sphincter function.
Biopsy collection
When suspicious lesions are present, a sample is taken for study. This allows confirmation or ruling out of more serious conditions.
Are colorectal examinations or procedures painful?
One of the most common concerns is whether exams in this area are painful. The truth is that most evaluations are quick, careful, and well tolerated. For more invasive procedures, the appropriate anesthesia is used depending on the type of intervention and level of complexity.
At MDE Care we use techniques that minimize discomfort to the greatest extent possible, explain each step to the patient, and take care of their emotional comfort.
When should you visit a colorectal surgeon?
A colorectal visit can occur for many reasons, whether for prevention, monitoring, or treatment. However, a timely consultation helps prevent complications or allows the appropriate treatment to be received in time.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, we recommend scheduling an appointment:
- Bleeding during bowel movements (on the toilet paper, in the bowl, or in the stool)
- Pain or burning in the anus
- Discharge, itching, or persistent anal moisture
- Sensation of a lump or pressure in the anal area
- Prolonged constipation or difficulty having bowel movements
- Incontinence or loss of sphincter control
- Changes in bowel habits without apparent cause
- Persistent digestive discomfort
- Family history of colorectal cancer
What is an appointment with a coloproctologist like?
Many people avoid scheduling an appointment out of fear, embarrassment, or lack of information. However, an appointment with a coloproctology specialist can be simple, brief, and make a real difference with a timely diagnosis.
On some occasions, an anorectal cleansing will be necessary to facilitate inspection of the area during the evaluation appointment. Depending on the condition being assessed, the evaluation may be divided into 5 phases:
- Clinical assessment:an interview is conducted to learn about symptoms, medical history, and previous treatments.
- External observation:the specialist visually inspects the perianal area
- Palpation:the skin around the anus is gently examined to detect sensitivity or any abnormality
- Rectal examination:the physician inserts a lubricated finger to examine the muscles and detect internal lesions
- Anoscopy and rectoscopy:using small, sterilized instruments, the interior of the anal canal and rectum is examined. Biopsies may be taken at this stage if necessary.
After the evaluation, complementary tests may be ordered or an appropriate treatment plan may be initiated based on the diagnosis.
MDE Care takes care of your health without taboos
At MDE Care, we combine medical expertise, diagnostic technology, and patient-centered care. Our coloproctology consultations are designed to build trust, answer questions, and provide a clear, personalized action plan.
If you are experiencing digestive or anorectal symptoms, or simply wish to prevent future complications, we invite you to schedule your evaluation with us. We are here to support you with respect, empathy, and professionalism.
