Colon & Rectal Care

Overview:

Anorectal manometry is a diagnostic test that measures the strength, coordination, and sensation of the muscles in the rectum and anus. A thin, flexible catheter with sensors is inserted into the rectum to record pressure changes during rest, squeezing, and pushing. This helps evaluate how well the rectum and anal sphincter work together to control bowel movements.

Conditions Evaluated:

• Chronic constipation or difficulty passing stool
• Fecal incontinence (loss of bowel control)
• Pelvic floor dysfunction or dyssynergia
• Hirschsprung’s disease (especially in children)
• Post-surgical or nerve-related bowel control issues

Overview:

Cologuard is a noninvasive, at-home screening test used to detect signs of colorectal cancer and certain precancerous polyps. It works by analyzing a stool sample for abnormal DNA and hidden blood. This test is intended for average-risk adults and helps identify potential issues early, often before symptoms develop.

Conditions Tested:

• Colorectal cancer
• Precancerous colon polyps (advanced adenomas)
• Occult (hidden) blood in the stool

Note: Cologuard is a screening tool, not a diagnostic procedure. Abnormal results require follow-up testing, typically a colonoscopy.

Overview:

Colon cancer screening helps detect colorectal cancer and precancerous polyps early, often before symptoms appear. Regular screening greatly improves prevention and treatment outcomes. Several options are available (listed below), which allow doctors to view and remove polyps in one procedure. Screening usually begins at age 45,or earlier for those with higher risk.

*Screening Types:

• Colonoscopy: Common procedure used to examine the lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum with a flexible tube with a camera (colonoscope). For average-risk individuals, a colonoscopy is recommended every 10 years, starting at age 45.
• High-sensitivity fecal occult blood test (FOBT): Non-invasive screening tool designed to detect microscopic amounts of blood in the stool that aren't visible to the naked eye. For average-risk individuals, this test should be performed annually.
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy: Diagnostic and screening procedure that allows a physician to examine the lower part of the large intestine, specifically the rectum and sigmoid colon. For average-risk individuals, if flexible sigmoidoscopy is chosen as the primary screening method, it's typically recommended every 5 to 10 years.

*Colon cancer screenings are performed by a member of the General Gastroenterology team at our Endoscopy locations.

Conditions Identified:

• Colorectal cancer
• Precancerous polyps (adenomas)
• Inflammation from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Diverticulosis or diverticulitis
• Colonic bleeding sources
• Colonic strictures or narrowing
• Infections or ischemic changes

Before the Procedure:

You’ll receive detailed instructions to prepare your colon so your doctor can see it clearly during the procedure. Preparation typically includes following a special diet, avoiding certain medications, and taking a bowel-cleansing solution the day before. You’ll also arrange for someone to drive you home, since you’ll be sedated during a colonoscopy.

Overview:

A colonoscopy allows your provider to examine the inside of the large intestine using a long, flexible tube with a light and tiny camera. During the procedure, the scope is gently inserted through the rectum and advanced through the colon while air or carbon dioxide is used to expand the space for clear viewing.

Polyps may be removed, and small tissue samples can be collected for testing. This helps detect bleeding, inflammation, or precancerous growths early, often preventing colorectal cancer and guiding treatment for chronic digestive issues.

Conditions Diagnosed:

• Colorectal cancer and polyps
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Unexplained bleeding or anemia
• Chronic diarrhea or constipation

Overview:

Colorectal surgery involves surgical treatment of diseases affecting the colon, rectum, and anus. Procedures may be performed using minimally invasive, laparoscopic, or robotic techniques to remove diseased tissue, repair damage, or restore normal bowel function. Colorectal surgeons treat both benign and malignant conditions, working to relieve symptoms, prevent complications, and improve quality of life.

Conditions Treated:

• Colorectal cancer and polyps
• Diverticulitis and diverticular disease
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Colorectal obstruction or perforation
• Rectal prolapse
• Anal fistulas, fissures, or abscesses
• Severe hemorrhoids or bleeding
• Bowel incontinence or trauma

Please note, some conditions require a colorectal surgeon to perform.