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Colorectal Surgery

Overview

What is Colorectal Surgery?

A surgical subspeciality, colorectal surgery is responsible for diagnosing and treating diseases that affect the lower digestive tract. This includes the colon, rectum and anus. A colorectal surgery doctor, beyond general surgery training, possesses highly specialised training, equipping them to manage a complex range of conditions. These range from common haemorrhoids to intricate cancers.

Surgical skill is paramount but is not the only thing the specialty focuses on, extending far beyond the operating theatre. Specialists in this field carry a deep understanding of bowel function, pelvic anatomy and the profound impact these conditions have on a patient's quality of life. Using the least invasive approach possible to preserve and restore normal body function and treating disease effectively are the goals, to ensure both physical recovery and personal dignity.

Types of Colorectal Conditions

The scope of colorectal surgery is broad, addressing conditions that are both benign and malignant and that disrupt digestive health. Sometimes medical therapy may not be sufficient for conditions like Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) where surgical management would be required for complications. Surgery plays a crucial role in curative treatment for colorectal cancers as well. In conditions like diverticular disease, complex anal fistulas and abscesses and symptomatic haemorrhoids and anal fissures, functional and structural issues are common which would require surgical intervention.

Colorectal polyps, being precursors to cancer in some cases alongside pelvic floor disorders are also key areas. Complications arising from previous surgery can also be managed. We tailor strategies to meet the individual's specific anatomy and health status.

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Many colorectal symptoms are mistakenly dismissed or cause undue anxiety, which is why seeking a medical opinion is necessary. Patients experiencing persistent, unexplained changes in bowel habits, such as new-onset constipation, diarrhoea or a consistent change in stool calibre should consult a colorectal surgeon. A symptom that requires immediate attention would be the presence of rectal bleeding or blood in the stool, even if minor. Things like persistent abdominal pain, cramping or bloating that does not resolve should be investigated.

Some signs are a little more subtle. Things like unexplained weight loss, a feeling of incomplete evacuation, or the sensation of a lump or prolapse in the anal area could indicate an underlying issue. It’s highly advisable for patients who have a significant family history of colorectal cancer or polyps to seek a proactive consultation for screening guidance. A timely assessment by a colorectal surgeon in Dubai or Abu Dhabi or the UAE, can lead to earlier diagnosis which will result in more effective, less invasive treatment options.

The process begins with a detailed consultation and a gentle, thorough physical examination, which may include a digital rectal exam. Diagnostic investigation is performed through an endoscopy. A colonoscopy is used to allow the surgeon to visually inspect the entire colon and rectum, and is the gold standard for detecting polyps, inflammation and cancer. It also enables immediate biopsy or polyp removal.

A proctoscopy or sigmoidoscopy may be used for a more focused evaluation of the rectum and anus. Advanced imaging, such as CT scans or MRI pelvimetry, is invaluable for staging cancers, assessing complex fistula tracts, or visualising pelvic anatomy in detail. Endoanal ultrasound provides high-resolution images of the anal sphincter muscles in specific cases.

  • Colorectal Cancer
  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease
  • Diverticular Disease
  • Complex Anal Fistula and Perianal Abscess
  • Haemorrhoids and Anal Fissures
  • Colorectal and Rectal Polyps
  • Pelvic Floor Disorders
  • Stoma Creation, Reversal, and Management of Complications

Minimally invasive, patient-centred care is our priority at NMC across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah and Al Ain. Achieving the best clinical outcome while preserving quality of life across is our goal. We employ the most advanced laparoscopic (keyhole) and robotic-assisted surgical techniques, whenever clinically appropriate, to achieve this. By using small incisions, these approaches lead to significantly less post-operative pain, reduced risk of infection, shorter hospital stays, allowing patients to return to normal activities quicker than with traditional open surgery. Our surgeons are specialised in sphincter-saving procedures for rectal cancer and complex pelvic conditions, striving to avoid permanent stomas where possible. We offer a range of office-based and day-case procedures for benign anorectal conditions like haemorrhoids and fissures.

Integrated and multidisciplinary, our care involves close collaboration between gastroenterologists, oncologists, specialist nurses, and stoma therapists. Together, they all provide seamless support from diagnosis through recovery and beyond.

With a wealth of experience, our consultant surgeons are experienced in managing colorectal disorders that are both common and complex. Supporting them are teams of dedicated clinical nurse specialists, stoma care therapists and allied health professionals.

We understand that conditions affecting this part of the body can be deeply personal and concerning. Our consultants ensure to make this journey as comfortable as possible by providing a respectful, confidential, and empathetic environment. Diagnoses are communicated clearly, and all treatment options are discussed, including the benefits of minimally invasive surgery. They answer every question with patience. All this is done to ensure patients feel confident and fully informed in their care journey. For expert management, patients can trust our colorectal surgeon across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, and Al Ain within the NMC network.

FAQs

Find the Answer to Your Medical Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

As opposed to open surgery, recovery is typically faster. Depending on the procedure, most patients can leave the hospital within 2-5 days. Within 2-3 weeks, a return to light activities and non-strenuous work is often with full recovery and resumption of all normal activities, including exercise, taking approximately 4-6 weeks. Personalised guidance will be provided by your surgeon.
The procedure itself is not painful. To ensure they’re comfortable and relaxed, patients are always sedated. A slight pressure or bloating during the examination is how most people would describe the sensation. The most challenging part comes beforehand, where a laxative is taken to cleanse the bowel.
There are quite a few signs. Persistent change in bowel habit like diarrhoea or constipation lasting more than a few weeks, rectal bleeding or blood in the stool, which may appear darker than usual and persistent abdominal discomfort like cramps, gas, or pain could indicate the start of something. A feeling that the bowel does not empty completely, unexplained weakness or fatigue and unintended weight loss are also to be monitored closely.
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