If you’re dealing with colorectal conditions, whether it’s discomfort from haemorrhoids or more serious concerns like colorectal cancer, it’s essential to seek expert medical advice. Consulting a colorectal surgeon can provide you with the specialised care needed to diagnose and treat these conditions effectively. Patients considering colorectal surgery in Singapore often seek experienced surgeons who specialise in treating issues related to the colon.
But what exactly do colorectal surgeons do, and how can they help with such issues? In this article, we explore their role in managing and treating colorectal conditions so you can make informed decisions about your health.
A colorectal surgeon is a medical doctor specialising in the diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the colon, rectum, and anus. They are experts in both routine and complex conditions, handling everything from minor issues like haemorrhoids to life-threatening diseases like colorectal cancer. Our healthcare facility that performs colorectal surgery in Singapore is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to ensure high success rates and patient safety.
Their expertise extends beyond surgical interventions. They also provide noninvasive treatments, screenings, and preventative measures to manage a variety of conditions.
Colorectal specialists often work closely with other specialists, including gastroenterologists and oncologists, to ensure comprehensive patient care.
Common conditions treated by colorectal surgeons
Colorectal surgeons treat a wide range of conditions that affect the digestive tract. Here’s an overview of the most common conditions they handle:
Colorectal cancer
Colorectal cancer, one of the most common cancers globally, affects the colon or rectum. It typically starts as benign polyps that gradually turn cancerous over time. Signs and symptoms include rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits (such as diarrhoea or constipation), unexplained weight loss, and abdominal pain.
Treatment options will depend on the current stage of cancer. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted drug therapies may be necessary to remove the tumour. In the early stages, surgery alone can often remove the cancerous tissue. For more advanced cancer, the colorectal surgeon may recommend a combination of treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, to shrink the tumour before surgery or to eliminate remaining cancer cells post-surgery.
Haemorrhoids (piles)
Piles are enlarged veins in the anus or rectum. They are usually caused by excessive straining during bowel movements, pregnancy, or chronic constipation. Symptoms include pain, itching, and bleeding during defecation.
To prevent haemorrhoids, colorectal doctors often recommend a high-fibre diet, proper hydration, and avoiding prolonged sitting on the toilet. Treatment options range from over-the-counter creams to medical interventions like rubber band ligation or, in severe cases, surgical removal.
Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis occurs when the colon’s small pouches (diverticula) become inflamed or infected. This condition often arises from a diet low in fibre, causing increased pressure in the colon. Symptoms include abdominal pain (usually on the lower left side), fever, nausea, and changing bowel habits.
Management strategies for diverticulitis depend on its severity. Mild cases can often be treated with dietary modifications and antibiotics, while more severe cases may require hospitalisation or surgery to remove the affected portion of the colon.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) encompasses two chronic conditions: Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis. Both involve digestive tract inflammation, though they affect different parts—Crohn’s can occur anywhere in the gastrointestinal tract, while Ulcerative Colitis affects just the colon and rectum.
Treatment options for IBD aim to reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms, and prevent complications. These include anti-inflammatory medications, immune system suppressors, biological therapies, and, in severe cases, operation to remove damaged portions of the digestive tract. Lifestyle changes and dietary adjustments can also play a critical role in managing symptoms.
When to consult a colorectal doctor
You should consult a colorectal doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Persistent rectal bleeding
- Unexplained changes in bowel habits
- Severe abdominal pain or cramping
- Unexplained weight loss
- A family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
- A diagnosis of conditions like haemorrhoids, diverticulitis, or IBD that requires specialist care
Even if your symptoms are mild, it is crucial to seek medical advice promptly. Colorectal conditions can progress if left untreated; early intervention with a specialist often leads to better outcomes.
What to expect during your first visit
During your initial consultation with a colorectal specialist, they will review your medical history, check your symptoms, and possibly recommend diagnostic tests like a colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or imaging studies (CT scans or MRIs) to understand your condition better. Before undergoing colorectal surgery in Singapore, patients typically undergo a thorough diagnostic process to determine the most effective treatment approach.
The doctor will explain your diagnosis, outline the treatment options available, and clarify any doubts you have. If surgery is necessary, they will explain the process, the risks involved, and what to expect during recovery.
Consult a colorectal surgeon in Singapore
Consulting a colorectal doctor can be a life-changing step when it comes to managing or preventing serious conditions like colorectal cancer. Whether seeking routine care or dealing with more complex health concerns, colorectal surgeons are well-equipped to provide the expert care you need to ensure your colorectal health is in good hands. After colorectal surgery in Singapore, follow-up care is essential to monitor the patient’s recovery and prevent any potential complications.
At Advanced Colorectal & General Surgery, our surgeon provides treatment for a wide range of colorectal conditions in Singapore. We offer personalised treatment plans to address each patient’s needs.
Our surgeon performing colorectal surgery in Singapore is trained in a variety of procedures, from simple excisions to complex reconstructions. If you’re experiencing colorectal symptoms, schedule a consultation with us.
