Hemorrhoids - Also referred to as "piles", hemorrhoids are natural tissues that exist at the end of our anal canal. They can become swollen and enlarged after periods of high pressure, such as constipation or pregnancy. They can often cause pain with defecation or bleeding
Anal fissures - Tears which form in the lining of the anus as a result of muscle spasm and hard stool. These can cause intense pain and a feeling of "passing glass", as well as contribute to bleeding.
Anal fistulas - Tunnels which form between the rectum and peri-anal skin as a result of prior infections or inflammatory disorders. These can cause recurrent infections to develop in the anal region or as chronic drainage
Screening colonoscopy - This is an essential procedure for the purposes of identifying polyp while they are still in an early stage. The US Preventative Services Task Force now recommends all adults over the age of 45 obtain an initial screening colonoscopy. Those with family history of colon cancer, or with concerning symptoms may require earlier screening.
Diagnostic and therapeutic colonoscopy for GI bleeding, colon masses, narrowing, and obstructions - Can be performed for a host of conditions as a supplement to, or alternative for surgery.
Diverticular disease - An infectious process that affects the left side of the colon. Typically causes abdominal pain and range in severity from relatively minor, to a life threatening emergency
Colon and rectal cancer - Cancers of the colon and rectum should be addressed in a prompt fashion by an experienced team of doctors. Surgical intervention can be considered the 1st line therapy for many colon or rectal cancers
Crohn's disease - An inflammatory condition that can affect any part of the GI tract. Can often present as bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, or nausea and vomiting. Surgery is an important option that may be necessary for complications from this disorder.
Ulcerative Colitis - An inflammatory condition that affects the colon. Commonly presents as "flares" characterized by bloody diarrhea and pain. This condition increases a patient's risk of developing colon cancer later in life and requires more aggressive screening.
Irritable bowel syndrome - Chronic condition characterized by abdominal pain and infrequent bowel movements. Can be managed appropriately with specialized medications.
Slow colonic transit - Infrequent bowel movements caused by slow movement of feces through your colon. May require surgery if unable to manage with medications alone.
Obstructive defecation - Feelings of incomplete or "blocked" defecation. Usually the results of pelvic muscles not squeezing in coordinated ways. If properly diagnosed, can usually be corrected with the use of specialized physical therapy.
Pelvic floor disorders - "Bulges" or "protrusions" around the rectum which may block the proper flow of stool. If significant enough, may require a surgery for correction
Colostomy and ileostomy reversal - Many ostomies are designed to be temporary in nature. A surgery can be performed to restore the natural continuity of your small intestines or colon and eliminate the need for an ostomy bag.
High output ostomies - A common problem with many ostomies is excessive output, which can lead to severe dehydration. Treatments are available to help slow down an over active ostomy.
Sacral nerve stimulation - A newer treatment which has demonstrated significant improvement in the quality of life of patient's who suffer from fecal leakage and incontinence. It involves an implantable device which helps regulate the nerves that run to the rectum.
Biliary colic - Abdominal pain that is often noted after eating a meal. Can be the result of stones which form within the gallbladder.
Cholecystitis - An infection of the gallbladder. Often the result of a stone which blocks the flow of bile
Umbilical hernias - Painful or uncomfortabe "bulges" which develop around the belly button. These are typically caused by internal abdominal organs protruding through a hole in the muscle layer. May require surgical intervention if causing discomfort or cannot be pushed back into the abdomen
Inguinal hernias - "Bulges" which develop around the groins. Also caused by abdominal organs protruding through natural defects in the muscle layer of the groins. May require surgical intervention if causing discomfort or cannot be push back into the abdomen.
Incisional hernias - "Bulges" which develop at prior surgical incision site. May require surgica intervention if causing discomfort or cannot be push back into the abdomen.