Expert colon and rectal surgeons at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center and across our health system, provide surgical and non-surgical treatment for conditions that affect the colon, small bowel, rectum, and anus. After completing training in general surgery, our experienced surgeons undergo advanced fellowship training to treat conditions of the colon and rectum. We treat benign (noncancerous) and malignant (cancerous) conditions, perform routine screening examinations, and offer surgical treatment when necessary.
Our colorectal surgeons have earned worldwide recognition for their advancements in the field. With unmatched skill, knowledge, and training, our board-certified surgeons perform the most innovative techniques and teach the latest minimally invasive and robotic procedures to other doctors across the country.
Conditions and Treatments
- Anal abscess/fistulas
- Anal fissure
- Bowel obstruction
- Colonoscopy
- Colorectal cancer
- Complex colorectal polyps
- Complex stoma problems
- Diverticular disease
- Familial polyposis syndromes
- Fecal incontinence
- Hemorrhoidal disease
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Laparoscopic colorectal surgery
- Rectal prolapse
- Robotic colorectal surgery
How to Prepare for Surgery
Each patient's experience is different. Your colorectal surgeon’s office can help you prepare, understand what to expect, and access any information or resources you need.
The idea of surgery can be stressful. Your doctor will provide you with information on what to expect, but bring these questions to your appointment so you have all the answers you need.
During your initial colorectal surgery consultation:
Which procedure do you recommend for me and why?
What is the desired outcome of this procedure?
If I don’t want surgery, what are my other options?
What are the risks of postponing?
Possible risks and side effects:
Can this surgery affect my ability to eat and drink?
Will I need to follow a specific diet after this procedure?
Can this surgery affect my ability to empty my bowels or bladder?
Will I need an ostomy or colostomy bag?
Should I expect to experience physical pain during or after the procedure?
Could this procedure increase my risk for developing infections? How can we reduce this risk?
Will this surgery impact my sexual or urinary function?
Recovery and aftercare:
How long will I take to recover from this procedure?
What are the stages of successful recovery?
Will I need more than one surgery to correct my problem?
Will I be able to eat normally after the surgery?
Will I have a restricted diet afterward?
Will I need the help of a caretaker after my operation?
How can I safely manage physical pain?
Will I continue taking the same medications to manage my condition?
How will I feel after the surgery, after recovery?
Will I need any additional procedures in the future after this one?
For Outpatient Surgery
If you are returning home following your procedure, please bring:
- Your insurance cards and photo ID
- A list of all medications you are currently taking (including dosage) and any medication you may need to take during your visit
- Insurance referral and authorizations
Please arrive at the office before your scheduled procedure. Follow any instructions about drinking and eating that your surgeon provides. Your care team may also ask you to avoid taking certain medicines before your procedure.
You should bring a friend or family member with you to your surgery so they can drive you home and care for you after your procedure.
If you have any other questions about your procedure, please contact your care team.
Why Choose UHealth?
Improving the future of surgical care. We participate in the latest research and clinical trials, which help determine which surgeries work best for which patients. This research improves patient safety and quality of care while shaping the future of surgical treatment. Our surgeons have helped develop new procedures to treat a wide range of conditions, helping patients experience faster recoveries and fewer surgical risks.
A comprehensive team of surgeons. We provide advanced care for many health problems — from heart conditions to anal cancer. You’ll receive care from a surgeon who has specialized experience and expertise in your specific condition, ensuring you receive the right care for your needs.
Leaders in robotic surgery treatment. The University of Miami Health System is home to some of the world’s most experienced robotic surgeons. That’s why doctors from across the globe come to our facility to learn from our team. We were the first academic medical center to use the da Vinci Xi robotic system and complete more than 5,000 robotic surgeries — procedures that offer less pain and scarring and a faster recovery.
Questions? We're here to help.
Our appointment specialists are ready to help you find what you need. Contact us today.