Top 25 Colorectal Surgery (proctology) Specialists Across the US
Verified from CMS provider data, updated monthly. Click any provider to see credentials, insurance acceptance, and patient resources.
What is a Colorectal Surgeon?
Learn about this specialty, training requirements, and when to schedule a visit.
A colorectal surgeon is a physician who specializes in the surgical treatment of diseases affecting the colon, rectum, and anus. Also known as proctologists or colon and rectal surgeons, these specialists have advanced training in both open and minimally invasive surgical techniques for treating conditions ranging from colorectal cancers to inflammatory bowel disease, hemorrhoids, and pelvic floor disorders. Colorectal surgeons work closely with gastroenterologists, oncologists, and other specialists to provide comprehensive care for complex digestive and colorectal conditions.
Training and Qualifications
Becoming a colorectal surgeon requires extensive education and training:
- 4 years of medical school to earn an MD or DO degree
- 5 years of general surgery residency with broad surgical training
- 1-2 years of colorectal surgery fellowship specializing in colon, rectal, and anal surgery
- Total of 13-14 years of education and training beyond high school
- Extensive training in minimally invasive techniques including laparoscopic and robotic surgery
Board Certification: American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery (ABCRS). Certification requires completion of an accredited fellowship and passing comprehensive written and oral examinations. Surgeons must first be certified by the American Board of Surgery before pursuing colorectal certification.
When Should You See a Colorectal Surgeon?
You should consider seeing a colorectal surgeon if:
- You have been diagnosed with colon cancer or rectal cancer requiring surgical treatment
- You have inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis) not responding to medical management
- You have severe or recurrent hemorrhoids that haven't responded to conservative treatment
- You experience rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss
- You have diverticulitis with complications such as abscesses or fistulas
- You suffer from fecal incontinence affecting your quality of life
- You have anal fissures, fistulas, or abscesses requiring surgical intervention
- You need a second opinion on a colorectal cancer diagnosis or treatment plan
Key Facts
Common Conditions Treated
Colorectal Surgeons are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. Here are some of the most common conditions that colorectal surgeons help patients manage.
Colon Cancer
Malignant tumors arising from the lining of the large intestine (colon), representing the third most common cancer in both men and women in the United States.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Colorectal surgeons perform partial or total colectomies to remove cancerous sections of the colon along with surrounding lymph nodes. They use minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic techniques when appropriate, reducing recovery time while maintaining excellent cancer outcomes.
Rectal Cancer
Cancer located in the last several inches of the colon (rectum) near the anus, requiring specialized surgical techniques to preserve bowel function and sphincter control when possible.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Colorectal surgeons perform low anterior resection or abdominoperineal resection depending on tumor location. Many patients are candidates for sphincter-sparing surgery. Total mesorectal excision (TME) technique ensures complete removal of tissue at risk while preserving nerve function.
Crohn's Disease
A chronic inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the digestive tract, causing inflammation, strictures, fistulas, and abscesses that may require surgical intervention.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Colorectal surgeons remove diseased bowel segments while preserving as much healthy intestine as possible. They repair fistulas, drain abscesses, and perform strictureplasty to widen narrowed areas. Surgery is often needed when medical therapy fails or complications develop.
Ulcerative Colitis
A chronic inflammatory bowel disease limited to the colon and rectum, causing continuous inflammation of the intestinal lining. Severe cases or those with cancer risk may require surgical treatment.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Colorectal surgeons perform total proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (J-pouch surgery), removing the entire colon and rectum while creating an internal reservoir that allows patients to maintain normal bowel function without a permanent ostomy.
Hemorrhoids
Swollen blood vessels in and around the rectum and anus that can cause pain, itching, and bleeding. Severe or recurrent hemorrhoids may require surgical treatment.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Colorectal surgeons offer multiple treatment options including rubber band ligation, infrared coagulation, and surgical hemorrhoidectomy. Advanced procedures like stapled hemorrhoidopexy and THD (transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization) provide effective treatment with less pain and faster recovery.
Anal Fissures
Small tears in the lining of the anal canal that cause severe pain and bleeding with bowel movements. Chronic fissures that don't heal with conservative treatment may require surgery.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Colorectal surgeons perform lateral internal sphincterotomy, a minimally invasive procedure that relaxes the anal sphincter muscle to promote healing. This outpatient surgery has a 95%+ success rate for chronic fissures that haven't responded to medical treatment.
Diverticulitis
Inflammation or infection of small pouches (diverticula) that develop along the colon wall. Complicated diverticulitis with abscesses, perforations, or fistulas often requires surgical treatment.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Colorectal surgeons perform sigmoid colectomy to remove the diseased segment of colon. Many cases can be done laparoscopically with faster recovery. Emergency surgery may be needed for perforation, while elective surgery prevents recurrent attacks in appropriate patients.
Fecal Incontinence
The inability to control bowel movements, causing stool to leak unexpectedly. This condition significantly impacts quality of life and often has treatable surgical causes.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Colorectal surgeons evaluate the cause of incontinence using specialized testing and offer treatments including sphincter repair, sacral nerve stimulation (InterStim), injectable bulking agents, and in select cases, colostomy for severe refractory incontinence.
Important Note
This list represents common conditions but is not exhaustive. Colorectal Surgeons treat many other conditions related to their specialty. If you're experiencing symptoms or have concerns, consult with a qualified colorectal surgeon for a proper evaluation.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Understanding what happens during your appointment can help you feel more prepared. Here's what you can typically expect when visiting a colorectal surgeon.
Your First Visit
- Comprehensive review of your medical history, symptoms, and previous treatments
- Discussion of colonoscopy results, imaging studies, and pathology reports if available
- Thorough physical examination including digital rectal exam when indicated
- Detailed explanation of your diagnosis and all available treatment options
- Discussion of surgical vs. non-surgical approaches when applicable
- Review of risks, benefits, and expected outcomes for recommended procedures
- Initial colorectal surgery consultations typically last 30-60 minutes
Diagnosis & Testing
- Review of colonoscopy findings and biopsy results for cancer or inflammatory conditions
- CT scan or MRI imaging to evaluate extent of disease and surgical planning
- Endorectal ultrasound for rectal cancer staging and sphincter evaluation
- Anorectal manometry testing for fecal incontinence and pelvic floor disorders
- Defecography for evaluation of rectal prolapse and obstructed defecation
- Laboratory tests including tumor markers (CEA) for colorectal cancer staging
Treatment Options
- Pre-operative optimization including nutritional assessment and bowel preparation
- Surgical intervention using minimally invasive (laparoscopic/robotic) or open techniques as appropriate
- Multi-disciplinary coordination with oncologists for chemotherapy and radiation when indicated
- Enhanced recovery protocols to minimize hospital stay and speed recovery
- Post-operative pain management with multimodal approaches to reduce opioid use
- Regular surveillance and follow-up care including colonoscopy and imaging for cancer patients
- Stoma education and support for patients requiring temporary or permanent ostomies
Tip for Your Visit
Bring a list of current medications, previous test results, and questions you want to ask. Writing down your symptoms—when they occur and what affects them—helps your colorectal surgeon provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
How to Choose the Right Colorectal Surgeon
Finding the right healthcare provider is important for your health and peace of mind. Here are key factors to consider when selecting a colorectal surgeon.
Credentials to Verify
- Board certification by the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery (ABCRS)
- Completion of an accredited colorectal surgery fellowship (1-2 years)
- Primary board certification in general surgery from the American Board of Surgery
- Active, unrestricted medical license in your state
- Hospital privileges at accredited medical centers
- Membership in the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS)
Important Considerations
- Surgeon's experience and volume with your specific condition or procedure
- Availability of minimally invasive (laparoscopic/robotic) surgical techniques
- Hospital's colorectal cancer outcomes and complication rates
- Access to multidisciplinary tumor board for cancer cases
- Experience with sphincter-sparing techniques for rectal cancer
- Availability of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols
- Patient reviews and communication style
Quick Tip
Don't hesitate to schedule consultations with multiple colorectal surgeons before making your decision. The right fit isn't just about credentials—it's also about feeling comfortable and confident in your care.
Cost and Insurance Information
Understanding the costs associated with seeing a colorectal surgeon can help you plan for your healthcare needs.
Average Costs (Without Insurance)
Initial Visit
$200-$400 (specialist consultation)
Follow-up Visit
$100-$250
Common Procedures
Note: These are estimated average costs and can vary based on location, provider, and specific services required.
Insurance Coverage
- Most health insurance plans cover medically necessary colorectal surgery
- Cancer surgery is typically covered with prior authorization
- Minimally invasive techniques are usually covered at the same rate as open surgery
- Pre-authorization is often required for elective colorectal procedures
- In-network colorectal surgeons significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs
- Some hemorrhoid treatments may be considered elective and have limited coverage
Medicare Information
Medicare Part A covers inpatient colorectal surgery including hospital stay, operating room, and related services. Medicare Part B covers the surgeon's fees at 80% of the approved amount after the deductible. Colorectal cancer surgery and treatment for serious conditions are fully covered when medically necessary. Screening colonoscopy is covered at no cost for patients over 45.
Money-Saving Tips
- 1Always verify your colorectal surgeon is in-network before scheduling
- 2Ask about self-pay discounts if you don't have insurance
- 3Inquire about payment plans for expensive procedures
- 4Get prior authorization when required to avoid claim denials
- 5Use FSA or HSA funds for eligible medical expenses
Questions to Ask Your Colorectal Surgeon
Being prepared for your appointment helps you get the most out of your time with your doctor. Here are important questions to consider asking a colorectal surgeon.
What is your experience with my specific condition and how many similar procedures have you performed?
Can my surgery be done using minimally invasive (laparoscopic or robotic) techniques?
What is the likelihood I will need a temporary or permanent ostomy?
What are the risks and potential complications specific to my procedure?
Do you participate in multidisciplinary tumor board meetings for cancer cases?
What enhanced recovery protocols do you use to speed recovery?
What is your rate of sphincter preservation for rectal cancer surgery?
How long should I expect to be in the hospital and off work?
What follow-up care and surveillance will I need after surgery?
Do you have an ostomy nurse available if I need stoma education?
Pro Tip
Write down your questions before your appointment and bring them with you. Don't hesitate to take notes during your visit or ask for written instructions.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Know when symptoms require immediate attention versus a scheduled appointment.
While most conditions can wait for a scheduled appointment with a colorectal surgeon, certain symptoms require immediate emergency care. Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you experience:
- Severe abdominal pain with fever and chills - may indicate bowel perforation or abscess requiring emergency surgery
- Heavy rectal bleeding soaking pads or passing large clots - may indicate hemorrhage requiring urgent evaluation
- Complete inability to pass stool or gas with abdominal distension - may indicate bowel obstruction
- Signs of infection at surgical site: increasing redness, swelling, drainage, or fever after surgery
- Severe nausea and vomiting with inability to keep fluids down after colorectal surgery
- Stoma that turns dark or black color - may indicate compromised blood supply requiring emergency care
EMERGENCY
Call 911 or nearest ER
URGENT
Doctor or urgent care
NON-URGENT
Regular appointment
Colorectal Surgeon vs. Other Specialists
Understanding the differences between medical specialists helps you choose the right provider for your needs.
Colorectal Surgeon vs. Gastroenterologist
A colorectal surgeon specializes in surgical treatment of colon, rectal, and anal conditions with 13-14 years of training including a surgical fellowship. A gastroenterologist is a medical specialist who diagnoses and treats digestive conditions primarily through non-surgical means including endoscopy and medications. Gastroenterologists often diagnose conditions that colorectal surgeons then treat surgically. Both work together in a complementary relationship for comprehensive digestive care.
Colorectal Surgeon vs. General Surgeon
A colorectal surgeon has completed additional fellowship training specifically in diseases of the colon, rectum, and anus beyond general surgery residency. While general surgeons perform some colorectal procedures, colorectal surgeons have specialized expertise in complex cases including rectal cancer with sphincter preservation, inflammatory bowel disease surgery, and advanced pelvic floor disorders. For complex colorectal conditions, referral to a subspecialized colorectal surgeon typically offers better outcomes.
Colorectal Surgeon vs. Medical Oncologist
A colorectal surgeon performs the surgical removal of colorectal cancers, while a medical oncologist specializes in chemotherapy and systemic treatments for cancer. For colorectal cancer treatment, both specialists work as part of a multidisciplinary team. The colorectal surgeon removes the tumor surgically, and the oncologist provides chemotherapy before or after surgery when indicated. Together with radiation oncologists, they develop comprehensive cancer treatment plans.
Not sure which specialist you need?
Your primary care physician can help determine the right specialist for your condition and provide a referral if needed.
Sources & References
Information about colorectal surgeons is sourced from peer-reviewed medical literature and authoritative organizations.
Last updated: March 2026
Read our editorial standardsFind Colorectal Surgery (proctology) Specialists by City
Browse colorectal surgery (proctology) specialists in top cities across the United States
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about colorectal surgery (proctology) specialists
What is the difference between a colorectal surgeon and a gastroenterologist?
A colorectal surgeon is a surgeon who specializes in operative treatment of colon, rectal, and anal conditions, with extensive training in both open and minimally invasive surgery. A gastroenterologist is a medical specialist who diagnoses and treats digestive conditions primarily through non-surgical means including endoscopy, colonoscopy, and medication management. For many conditions, patients see a gastroenterologist first for diagnosis and medical management, then are referred to a colorectal surgeon if surgery becomes necessary. Both specialists often work together to provide comprehensive care.
Will I need a colostomy bag after colorectal surgery?
Not all colorectal surgeries require a colostomy or ostomy. Many colon cancer surgeries allow the bowel to be reconnected during the same operation. For rectal cancer, a temporary ileostomy may be created to protect the healing connection, which is typically reversed after 2-3 months. Permanent colostomy is usually only necessary when the cancer is very close to the anus and sphincter-sparing surgery isn't possible, or in certain emergency situations. Your colorectal surgeon will discuss all options and likelihood of stoma with you before surgery.
How long is recovery after colorectal surgery?
Recovery time varies depending on the procedure and whether minimally invasive techniques are used. Laparoscopic or robotic colorectal surgery typically requires 3-5 days in the hospital with return to normal activities in 2-4 weeks. Open surgery may require 5-7 days hospitalization and 4-6 weeks recovery. Hemorrhoid surgery is often outpatient with 1-2 weeks recovery. Enhanced recovery protocols have significantly reduced hospital stays and improved outcomes. Your surgeon will provide specific recovery guidelines based on your procedure.
What are the benefits of minimally invasive colorectal surgery?
Minimally invasive surgery using laparoscopic or robotic techniques offers significant advantages including smaller incisions (several small cuts instead of one large incision), less post-operative pain, shorter hospital stays (often 2-3 days less), faster return to normal activities, reduced risk of wound complications and hernias, and equivalent cancer outcomes compared to open surgery. At experienced colorectal surgery centers, 70-80% of procedures can be performed minimally invasively. However, not all patients are candidates, and your surgeon will recommend the safest approach for your situation.
When should I see a colorectal surgeon instead of treating hemorrhoids at home?
While many hemorrhoids respond to conservative treatment (fiber, hydration, over-the-counter creams), you should see a colorectal surgeon if you have persistent bleeding lasting more than a week, hemorrhoids that prolapse and cannot be pushed back in, significant pain or thrombosis (blood clot), symptoms that return after conservative treatment, or any rectal bleeding that should be evaluated to rule out other conditions like colorectal cancer. A colorectal surgeon can offer office-based treatments like rubber band ligation for appropriate cases or surgical options for more severe hemorrhoids.
Medical disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about a medical condition. If you have a medical emergency, call 911. Our editorial standards