Careers in Medicine: Specialty Information

Colon and Rectal Surgery

Nature of the work

A Colon and Rectal Surgeon is trained to diagnose and treat various diseases of the small intestine, colon, rectum, anal canal, and perianal area by medical and surgical means. This specialist also deals with other organs and tissues (such as the liver, urinary and female reproductive system) involved with primary intestinal disease. Colon and Rectal Surgeons have the expertise to diagnose and often manage anorectal conditions such as hemorrhoids, fissures (painful tears in the anal lining), abscesses, and fistulas (infections located around the anus and rectum) in the office setting. They also treat problems of the intestine and colon and perform endoscopic procedures to evaluate and treat problems such as cancer, polyps (precancerous growths), and inflammatory conditions.¹

Training/residency information

The residency training for colon and rectal surgeons consists of five years in general surgery and one year specializing in colon and rectal surgery.

For more information

• American Society of Colon & Rectal Surgeons
• American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery

References
1 The American Board of Medical Specialties. Guide to Physician Specialties. Evanston, IL: American Board of Medical Specialties; February 2008.

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