Minimally Invasive Colon & Rectal Surgery
Our gastroenterology team is experienced in minimally invasive approaches to colon and rectal surgery. Unlike open surgery, our minimally invasive approach requires a few small incisions instead of one long incision, which often allows for quicker recovery. Both laparoscopic and robotic surgery options are available to our patients.
We also offer a specific type of microsurgery for early-stage rectal cancer, transanal endoscopic microsurgery, which is available from only a few hospitals in the country.
Laparoscopic Colon Surgery
Also referred to as “minimally invasive surgery” or “keyhole surgery,” laparoscopic surgery is a technique that uses a long, thin, telescope-like instrument called a laparoscope. This is attached to a video camera that projects images onto a monitor. The surgeon performs the operation as he or she watches the image on the monitor.
This type of procedure allows the surgeon to view a patient’s organs and internal structures and perform entire surgeries through tiny incisions, often no longer than five millimeters. These small incisions are one of the major advantages of laparoscopic surgery, because they result in less discomfort, a quicker recovery, and a better cosmetic result.
Our colon and rectal surgeons perform various colorectal procedures laparoscopically for a number of diseases. Although considered standard therapy for some benign disorders, this minimally invasive approach is still being used in a limited fashion for highly select cases.
Stapled Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery (STARR)
Stapled Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery, or STARR, is the first truly effective operation for obstructed defecation syndrome. This surgical procedure is performed through the anus. The surgeon uses a surgical stapler and removes excess tissue in the rectum. It requires no external incisions and leaves no apparent scars.
This procedure allows for a short recovery and causes minimal pain with no long-term side effects.