The Colon and Rectal Surgery Division manages patients with benign and malignant colon and anorectal diseases, in both the inpatient and outpatient settings. It is responsible for the care for patients with a wide range of diseases and disorders of the small bowel, colon, rectum, and anus. These include colon, rectal and anal cancer, diverticulitis, familial polyposis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, ileoanal reservoir (J-pouch), colon polyps, fecal incontinence, rectal prolapse, anorectal abscess, fistula, anal fissure, and hemorrhoids.
Our colorectal faculty, comprised of four surgeons, has broad expertise in the entire spectrum of colon and rectal surgical procedures, including minimally invasive surgery (laparoscopy) and other minimally invasive procedures for the treatment of colorectal diseases. They are skilled at performing sphincter-sparing surgery in the treatment of rectal cancer, which spares patients the inconvenience and emotional burden of a colostomy bag. They are also committed to performing colon cancer screening and colonoscopy, among other diagnostic tests.
Faculty also participate in several ongoing research trials, which the residents may be involved with during their rotation on this service. Occasionally, community colorectal surgeons operate at Stony Brook University Hospital and receive resident coverage. Our Anorectal Physiology Laboratory provides advanced diagnostic capabilities for patients with constipation and fecal incontinence, and serves as a strong educational resource for residents. Our new Simulation and Surgical Skills Center offers residents essential training experience by means of surgical simulation of laparoscopic colorectal surgery.