Colorectal Surgery

Colorectal surgery is the specialty concerned with the large bowel (colon), rectum and anus. Colorectal surgeons treat cancers of the bowel as well as a wide range of benign conditions. Many operations are now performed using laparoscopic (keyhole) or robotic techniques, which mean smaller wounds, less pain and a shorter stay in hospital.

Detailed information about the individual colorectal services offered at Sydney Surgical Oncology will be published here shortly.

• Bowel (colorectal) cancer and pre-cancerous polyps
• Inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, when surgery is required
• Diverticular disease and its complications
• Anal conditions such as haemorrhoids, fissures and fistulas
• Rectal prolapse and disorders of bowel function

Bowel cancer is one of the most common cancers in Australia and is highly treatable when found early. Diagnosis is usually made by colonoscopy with biopsy, followed by scans to stage the cancer. Every patient is discussed at a multidisciplinary team (MDT) meeting with medical and radiation oncologists, radiologists and pathologists so that surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are sequenced for the best outcome. Because Sydney Surgical Oncology brings surgeons and a medical oncologist together in one practice, this planning happens within a single coordinated team.

A referral from your GP or specialist is required. Please bring your referral letter, Medicare card, a list of your current medications and any recent colonoscopy reports, scan reports and blood test results. Your surgeon will review your history and investigations, explain the options available to you, and arrange any further tests that are needed before a treatment plan is agreed.