What They Do
A proctologist, more formally known today as a colorectal surgeon, is a physician who specializes in conditions affecting the colon, rectum, and anus. The term "proctologist" is still commonly used and understood, though "colorectal surgeon" is the more current formal title for the specialty.
What They Treat
Colorectal surgeons manage a range of conditions affecting the lower digestive tract, including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, fistulas, and abscesses in that area. They also manage more significant conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, diverticular disease, and colorectal cancer, and perform procedures ranging from minor in-office treatments to major abdominal surgery, depending on the condition.
Training Path
Becoming a colorectal surgeon requires completing a medical degree, followed by general surgical training, and then additional specialized training focused specifically on colorectal surgery. This additional training builds on general surgical skills with a specific focus on the anatomy and conditions of the colon, rectum, and anus.
When to See One
People are typically referred to a colorectal surgeon for persistent symptoms involving the lower digestive tract, such as rectal bleeding, persistent changes in bowel habits, or pain in the anal area. Colorectal surgeons are also closely involved in colorectal cancer screening programs, including performing colonoscopies, and in the ongoing management of conditions like inflammatory bowel disease alongside a gastroenterologist.
Background
The field of colorectal surgery developed as a distinct surgical specialty in the 20th century, as growing understanding of colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease led to more specialized surgical approaches for this part of the digestive tract. Advances such as minimally invasive and laparoscopic techniques have since considerably changed how many colorectal procedures are performed, generally allowing for shorter recovery times compared to older, more invasive surgical approaches.