FAQ

What is a Colon and Rectal Surgeon?

Colon and rectal surgeons are experts in the surgical and non-surgical treatment of diseases of the colon, rectum and anus. They have completed advanced surgical training in the treatment of these diseases as well as full general surgical training. Board-certified colon and rectal surgeons complete residencies in general surgery and colon and rectal surgery, and pass intensive examinations conducted by the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery. They are well-versed in the treatment of both benign and malignant diseases of the colon, rectum and anus and are able to perform routine screening examinations and surgically treat conditions if indicated to do so.

Certification by the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery

The surgeon who has attained Certification by the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery (ABCRS) has specialized knowledge and skill with regard to problems of the colon, rectum, anus and small bowel. In addition to having proficiency in the field of general surgery, board certified colon and rectal surgeons have attained particular expertise in diagnosis as well as medical and surgical management (including preoperative and postoperative care) in the following areas:

• Anorectal conditions
• Hemorrhoids
• Fissures
• Abscesses
• Fistulas
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Chronic ulcerative colitis
• Crohn’s disease
• Diverticulitis
• Colonic neoplasms
• Cancer
• Polyps
• Familial polyposis
• Endoscopy of the colon and rectum
• Rigid and flexible sigmoidoscopy
• Colonoscopy
• Endoscopic polypectomy
• Intestinal and anorectal physiology for management of:
  • Anal incontinence
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Rectal prolapse

To be certified by the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery, the surgeon must have met a standard in colon and rectal surgery by fulfilling specified educational, credentialing and examination requirements.

^{Content provided by the American Society of Colon & Rectal Surgeons. www.fascrs.org}