Colon and Rectal (Colorectal) Surgery

Conditions involving the lower gastrointestinal tract can be uncomfortable and often distressing. From your very first visit with us, your care and comfort are our priorities.

Our board-certified, fellowship-trained colorectal surgeons provide expert, personalized care for a variety of conditions affecting the lower gastrointestinal tract, including the colon, rectum and anus. From routine screenings to minimally invasive procedures, we are dedicated to restoring health and improving your quality of life.

We use the most advanced diagnostics, and we listen to your experience and concerns. Our ongoing education and advancement in surgical techniques and procedures assist us in arriving at the best plan for your individual condition.

Conditions we treat

Anal fissures and fistulas
Colon and rectal cancer
Crohn’s disease
Diverticulitis and diverticulosis
Fecal incontinence
Hemorrhoids
Inflammatory bowel disease
Polyps and precancerous growths
Rectal prolapse
Ulcerative colitis

Treatment options and follow-up

The colorectal surgeons at LVHN believe that accurate diagnosis and staging combined with skilled surgery lead to the best outcomes. We have expertise in open and minimally invasive (laparoscopic/robotic) procedures and opt for a minimally invasive approach whenever possible. This will get you back to your life quicker, with less pain and a shorter recovery.

Leading-edge techniques designed to minimize pain and enhance recovery:

Robotic-assisted surgery for precision and improved outcomes
Laprascopic surgery with smaller incisions and quicker recovery times
Transanal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS/TEMS) for select rectal tumors and polyps
Sphincter-preserving surgery to avoid permanent colostomy whenever possible

After surgery, we provide seamless referrals to other specialists across LVHN for continued care, attending to all physical and emotional aspects of your colorectal surgery.

Colorectal cancer

If you’re diagnosed with colorectal cancer, you’ll have an engaged team of experienced clinicians behind you. The outstanding Multidisciplinary Clinic at Lehigh Valley Topper Cancer Institute brings together colorectal surgeons and surgical oncologists with pathologists, radiologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists and genetic counselors to thoroughly discuss each case and the best path to recovery. This multidisciplinary level of care also ensures you have access to cancer research and the latest developments in cancer treatment.

Related specialty programs

Treatment at LVHN means you are connected to a comprehensive network of specialists and technology that can make a difference in your condition. Some of the related programs with which our colorectal surgeons collaborate are gastroenterology, hepatology and minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgery.

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery

We participate in the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS^®) program, which offers ways to reduce surgical stress, optimize physiological function and enhance your recovery. Some of the program’s elements include education for you and your family, upgrading your physical health prior to admission and returning to a normal diet and activities the same day as your surgery. Because the program involves your entire care team – including primary care clinicians – you’ll find exceptional support before, during and after your colorectal surgery.