What Does A Colorectal Surgeon Treat?

Colorectal surgeons in Singapore are medical specialists who diagnose disorders affecting the colon, rectum, and anus. They provide treatments for colorectal diseases. In addition to these conditions, a wide range of other diseases and disorders include colorectal cancer, diverticular disease, inflammatory bowel disease, perianal diseases such as haemorrhoids, anal fistulas and anal fissures. At Advanced Colorectal & General Surgery, we seek to become the one-stop treatment centre for all colorectal diseases and conditions.

How Do I Prepare For A Colorectal Surgery Consultation In Singapore?

To prepare for a colorectal surgery consultation in Singapore, gather your medical history, including any previous diagnoses, surgeries, and current medications. You should also be prepared to discuss your symptoms in detail. It's helpful to write down any questions you have in advance. Depending on the reason for your consultation, your doctor might advise specific preparations like fasting or bowel prep, especially if diagnostic tests like a colonoscopy are pla ed.

What Should I Expect During My First Visit To A Colorectal Clinic In Singapore?

During your first visit, the specialist will typically discuss your medical history, and symptoms, and may perform a physical examination. Additional diagnostic tests may be scheduled to understand your condition better.

What Conditions Commonly Require Colorectal Surgery?

At Advanced Colorectal & General Surgery, we seek to become the one-stop treatment centre for all colorectal diseases and conditions. You will need to seek colorectal surgery/clinic in Singapore for surgical procedures to repair the damages done to the colon or anus caused by injuries/diseases. It also treats various other cancerous/non-cancerous colorectal conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, haemorrhoids and more.

Can A Colorectal Surgeon In Singapore Provide A Second Opinion On My Diagnosis Or Treatment Plan?

Yes, a colorectal surgeon in Singapore can offer a second opinion on your diagnosis or treatment plan. Seeking a second opinion can provide additional insights, confirm a diagnosis, and help you explore alternative treatment options. When seeking a second opinion, bringing along all relevant medical records and test results is beneficial.

How Do I Choose The Right Colorectal Surgeon in Singapore For My Specific Condition?

To choose the right colorectal surgeon and hospital for your condition, focus on the surgeon's expertise and experience in your specific condition, the hospital's quality and success rates in colorectal surgery, and the surgeon's credentials and professional affiliations. Additionally, patient reviews should be considered for insights into the surgeon's approach and patient satisfaction. Factor in the hospital's location and convenience, and ensure that your health insurance is accepted. Lastly, a consultation is key to ensure you are comfortable with the surgeon's communication style and approach.

Do Colorectal Specialists Offer Minimally Invasive Surgery Options?

Yes. Many colorectal specialists in Singapore, like Dr Leong Quor Meng, perform minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as laparoscopy, which can reduce pain and quicker recovery times.

What Symptoms Require Colorectal Screening?

Common symptoms that warrant colorectal screening include persistent changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, unexplained abdominal pain, chronic constipation, diarrhea, or unexplained weight loss.

What Is Same-Day Colonoscopy?

Same-day colonoscopy means your consultation and your colonoscopy can take place on the same visit where clinically suitable and subject to the doctor’s assessment.

ADVANCED COLORECTAL AND GENERAL SURGERY

Colorectal Specialist in Singapore for Endoscopy & Minimally Invasive Surgery

Dedicated colorectal care offering minimally invasive procedures and surgical treatment for colorectal cancer and bowel conditions. We are committed to helping patients find relief and peace of mind through timely diagnosis and personalised treatment.

Led by Dr Leong Quor Meng, a colorectal surgeon with over 25 years of experience, with patient safety and comfort at the heart of care. Areas of expertise include:

Safeguard Your Health with a Colorectal Specialist in Singapore

Colorectal and gastrointestinal conditions can affect people of all ages, with symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to more serious health concerns. Timely detection and treatment can help manage these conditions and reduce the risk of complications.

Our practice centres on prompt assessment, accurate diagnosis and personalised care. We provide comprehensive care for bowel conditions, including colorectal cancer, anal fissures, anal fistulas, perianal abscesses, piles (haemorrhoids) and diverticular disease.

We also provide specialised treatment for digestive and general surgical conditions, including gallstones, hernias and skin lumps such as lipomas and cysts.

Need answers quickly? We offer same-day colonoscopy and endoscopy where suitable. From screening and diagnosis to treatment and follow-up care, our team is here to guide you through every step.

Why Early Colorectal Screening Matters

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting both men and women in Singapore, yet many cases can be prevented through regular screening and the removal of precancerous polyps.

Colorectal cancer and colon polyps often develop without noticeable symptoms in their early stages. A colonoscopy allows doctors to detect and remove these polyps, helping to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.

In Singapore, routine colorectal cancer screening is generally recommended from age 50 for individuals at average risk. However, it’s worth noting that colorectal cancer can also affect younger adults. Screening may involve an annual Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) or a colonoscopy at intervals recommended by your doctor.

Individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer, previous polyps or other risk factors may require earlier or more frequent screening. Speak to your doctor about the screening approach most suitable for you.

Bowel and Digestive Symptoms That Require Medical Attention

Experiencing changes in your bowel habits or digestive health? While occasional discomfort may not be a cause for concern, persistent or recurring symptoms should not be overlooked, as they may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical attention.

Dr Leong Quor Meng

Medical Director, Senior Consultant Colorectal & General Surgeon

Accredited Surgical Oncologist

MBBS (London), MRCS (Edinburgh), MMed (Surgery), FRCS (Edinburgh) (General Surgery), FAMS

Dr Leong Quor Meng is a Senior Consultant Colorectal & General Surgeon with over 25 years of experience. He leads Advanced Colorectal and General Surgery at Mount Alvernia Hospital and is an experienced surgical oncologist with a special interest in minimally invasive colorectal cancer surgery.

His expertise extends to the treatment of bowel, digestive and general surgical conditions, including anal fissures, anal fistulas, perianal abscesses, piles (haemorrhoids), diverticular disease, hernias, gallstones and appendicitis.

After graduating from the University of London in 2000, Dr Leong completed his specialist surgical training in Singapore. In 2010, he was awarded the Ministry of Health (MOH) Health Manpower Development Plan (HMDP) scholarship to train under Professor Kim Seon Hahn at Korea University, specialising in laparoscopic and robotic colorectal surgery.

Dr Leong is among a handful of surgeons in Singapore who practice Single Incision Laparoscopic Surgery (SILS) for colorectal diseases. Beyond his clinical practice, he also trains basic and advanced specialist trainees in laparoscopic surgery and proctors consultant surgeons in complex colorectal cases.

With over 10,000 endoscopic procedures performed, Dr Leong has extensive experience in diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy for elective and emergency conditions, including direct access colonoscopy and oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy (OGD). His approach emphasises accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment and patient safety, with personalised recommendations based on each patient’s condition.

Our Areas Of Expertise

We specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of colorectal, digestive and general surgical conditions, offering both non-surgical and surgical treatment options based on individual needs.

Where surgery is necessary and suitable, minimally invasive techniques may be used to reduce postoperative pain, shorten hospital stays and support faster recovery.

For urgent conditions, same-day surgery may be arranged following medical assessment, depending on the patient’s condition and suitability.

What Is Colorectal Surgery?

Colorectal surgery refers to a group of surgical procedures for conditions affecting the colon, rectum, and anus. These may include cancerous and non-cancerous conditions such as colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis, rectal prolapse, anal fistulas, haemorrhoids, and complications linked to bowel obstruction or injury. The aim is usually threefold: To remove or repair the affected tissue, restore normal bowel function as much as possible and reduce the risk of further complications.

Many colorectal procedures can be performed using minimally invasive (keyhole) techniques, where surgery is carried out through small incisions rather than one large opening. However, open surgery may still be necessary or more appropriate for certain conditions. Your colorectal surgeon will assess your condition and recommend the most suitable surgical approach based on your individual needs.

Procedures Performed by a Colorectal Surgeon

Colorectal surgeons perform a range of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, from endoscopic examinations and minimally invasive surgery to more extensive operations, depending on the nature and severity of the condition:

Colectomy: This involves the surgical removal of part or the entire colon, often necessary for treating or preventing diseases affecting the colon.
Colostomy: Creates an opening in the abdominal wall for stool to pass into a collection bag, used in situations where the lower bowel requires rest or removal.
Haemorrhoidectomy: The surgical removal of haemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in the lower part of the anus and rectum.
Polypectomy: Removal of polyps from the colon’s inner lining. Polyps are usually benign but can sometimes develop into cancer.
Rectal Prolapse Surgery: This surgery corrects a rectal prolapse, where the rectum slips outside of the anus.
Anal Fistula Surgery: A procedure to repair an anal fistula, an abnormal tunnel between the anal canal and the perianal skin.
Colonoscopy: An endoscopic examination of the colon and rectum to detect abnormalities such as polyps, inflammation and colorectal cancer.
Gastroscopy (OGD): An endoscopic examination of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum to investigate upper digestive conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I see a colorectal specialist?

Consider seeing a colorectal specialist if you experience persistent changes in bowel habits, abdominal discomfort, rectal bleeding or other digestive symptoms. Early assessment can help identify underlying conditions and guide appropriate treatment.

Are all colorectal conditions serious?

Not all colorectal conditions are serious. Many common conditions, such as haemorrhoids and anal fissures, can be effectively managed with appropriate treatment. However, persistent symptoms should be assessed to rule out more serious conditions.

Are colorectal conditions common in Singapore?

Colorectal conditions are common in Singapore, ranging from haemorrhoids and bowel disorders to colorectal polyps and cancer. Colorectal cancer is also one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers locally.

Can colorectal conditions be treated without surgery?

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the condition, as well as individual patient needs. Some conditions may be managed through monitoring and medication, while others may require minimally invasive procedures or surgical treatment.

Do I need a referral to see a colorectal specialist?

A referral is generally not required to consult a private colorectal specialist in Singapore. You may call us at +65 6252 5083 or contact us via WhatsApp to arrange an appointment.

What should I expect during my first visit?

Your colorectal specialist will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms and perform an examination where necessary. Further investigations may be recommended to determine the most suitable treatment approach.

Do I need to bring my previous medical records?

If available, bring along previous medical reports, endoscopy results, imaging scans and medication records. These can help your specialist better understand your condition and treatment history.

What is the difference between a colonoscopy and gastroscopy?

A colonoscopy examines the large intestine and rectum, while a gastroscopy examines the oesophagus, stomach and upper small intestine. Both procedures help diagnose digestive conditions and investigate symptoms.

What is same-day endoscopy?

Same-day endoscopy allows eligible patients to undergo a colonoscopy or gastroscopy on the day of their consultation, where suitable. Arrangements depend on medical assessment, bowel preparation and procedure availability.

Can I seek a second opinion?

Yes, seeking a second opinion can help you better understand your diagnosis, explore available treatment options and make informed decisions about your care.

How soon can I get an appointment?

Appointment availability depends on the clinic’s schedule and the urgency of your condition. Same-day appointments may be arranged where availability permits or for urgent cases.

Committed to Patient Care

We understand that visiting a specialist can feel overwhelming. Our team strives to create a supportive environment where patients feel comfortable and well cared for.

From insurance assistance and prompt appointment scheduling to post-treatment follow-up care, our nursing and support staff are here to help ensure a smooth and reassuring patient experience.

Experiencing Bowel or Digestive Symptoms?

Don’t let persistent symptoms affect your quality of life. Seek timely medical advice and take the first step towards finding relief and peace of mind.