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Colon And Rectal Surgery in Arlington, TX

What Is Colon And Rectal Surgery?

Colon and rectal surgery is used to treat a wide variety of gastrointestinal conditions affecting the colon, rectum and anus, including inflammatory bowel disease, hemorrhoids, diverticulitis, and colorectal cancer. With almost 150,000 cases of colon cancer diagnosed in the U.S. every year¹, staying up to date on regular colonoscopies is important. Regular colonoscopies are encouraged for anyone over 45 and anyone who has a family history of colon cancer. Talk to your doctor about your specific screening schedule as your needs may be different based on your unique medical history.

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What are the Benefits of Colon and Rectal Surgery?

There are a number of reasons why patients may benefit from colon and rectal surgery at USMD Hospital at Arlington:

  • Better quality of life: For patients struggling with gastrointestinal conditions, surgery can improve their overall quality of life. This may include improved bowel function, decreased pain and discomfort, and a reduction in symptoms.
  • Prevention of cancer: Colonoscopies are an important tool for detecting and preventing colon cancer. In cases where polyps or other abnormalities are found during the procedure, they can be removed immediately.
  • Management of chronic conditions: Surgery may be necessary for individuals with chronic conditions such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. This can help manage symptoms and prevent further complications.

Colon And Rectal Surgery Candidates

In addition to the treatment of colorectal cancer, colon and rectal surgeons are able to treat a wide variety of conditions affecting the colon and rectum. These conditions include:

  • Hemorrhoids
  • Anal fistula
  • Anal fissure
  • Polyps
  • Colorectal polyps
  • Constipation
  • Crohn's disease
  • Diverticulitis
  • Fecal incontinence
  • Inflammatory bowel disease
  • Rectal prolapse
  • Ulcerative colitis

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with or suspects any of these conditions, please contact USMD Hospital at Arlington and ask for assistance in contacting a colorectal surgeon in Dallas, Fort Worth, or the surrounding areas.

Colon And Rectal Surgery Technologies

USMD Hospital at Arlington is proud to offer the latest in minimally invasive surgery capabilities. Minimally invasive surgeries use smaller incisions so the recovery time is shortened, and there is less chance of complication. The surgeons who operate at our hospital use advanced endoscopic and laparoscopic alternative techniques to traditional colon and rectal surgeries. Some surgeries can even be performed with the assistance of robotic technology to make more precise incisions and movements, allowing for the most optimal surgical result with less downtime and chance of complication. Our team stays at the forefront of new and emerging technologies to continue changing lives with minimally invasive surgical options.

What Can You Expect With Colon and Rectal Surgery?

Colon and rectal surgery at our Arlington, TX hospital typically involves procedures aimed at addressing disorders of the lower digestive tract, such as cancer, inflammatory bowel diseases, and diverticulitis, among others. Patients can expect a preoperative assessment to review their medical history and to conduct necessary tests to evaluate the specific condition, such as colonoscopies or imaging studies. Depending on the diagnosis, approach, and complexity, colorectal surgery may involve removing or repairing portions of the colon or rectum. In some cases, a stoma may be created for waste elimination. Postoperatively, patients can anticipate a gradual reintroduction of foods, alongside management of pain and monitoring for any complications. The recovery period will vary, with some patients possibly requiring subsequent procedures or ongoing treatments.

Colon And Rectal Surgery FAQ

Is Bowel Prep Required for Colon and Rectal Surgery?
For some colorectal surgeries, you may be required to undergo bowel prep prior to surgery. Bowel prep methods can include enemas, laxatives, or following a restricted, clear-liquid diet for about 12-24 hours before your surgery. Your colorectal surgeon will discuss what is required for your specific surgery and your options for accomplishing bowel prep, if necessary, with you.
How Long Does It Take to Recover From Colon and Rectal Surgery?
Depending on the type of colon and rectal surgery you receive, you may require several weeks to recover. You may be monitored at the hospital for several days before discharge. It is important to follow all your colorectal surgeon’s aftercare instructions so that you can experience optimal healing after your surgery. If you notice anything that seems abnormal, contact your surgeon right away.
Are There Dietary Restrictions After Colon and Rectal Surgery?
You may be asked to delay solid foods or even clear liquids for a time as you heal from your surgery. Your colorectal surgeon will provide you with aftercare instructions that will help reintroduce liquid and foods as you become ready for them. If you have any questions regarding diet after surgery, please speak with your colorectal surgeon about them prior to your procedure.
What Technology Does Colon and Rectal Surgery Use?
At USMD Hospital at Arlington, we take pride in using the most advanced and optimal minimally invasive technologies. Our colorectal surgeons can perform some procedures using endoscopic and laparoscopic techniques, which require smaller incisions, shortening recovery time and cutting down the chances of possible complications. Some colon and rectal surgeries can even be performed using our robotic da Vinci® Surgical Systems. Please discuss your options for surgery with your colorectal surgeon before your procedure.
Is Colon and Rectal Surgery Covered by Insurance?
Colorectal surgery in Dallas/Fort Worth may be covered in part by a patient’s insurance carrier. Prior to your procedure, we advise that you contact your insurance provider to discuss your benefits with them. Our team at USMD Hospital at Arlington can help you navigate your billing and assist you in obtaining the care that you require.

A Patient-First Surgical Team

When you choose USMD Hospital at Arlington for your surgical needs, you are choosing a surgical team that will always put you first. USMD Hospital at Arlington has been awarded CareChex's top 10% of hospitals in the nation for Medical Excellence in Major Bowel Procedures, and Dexur ranked USMD Hospital at Arlington among the top hospitals in the nation for the lowest length of stay for colorectal surgeries. If you or someone you love has any of the conditions listed above or are in need of colon or rectal surgery, contact our hospital in Arlington, TX for assistance in contacting an experienced surgeon on our medical staff.

¹https://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/colorect.html

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USMD Hospital at Arlington is a joint venture with Texas Health Resources and meets the definition under federal law of a physician-owned hospital. Doctors on the medical staff practice independently and are not employees or agents of the hospital. A list of physician owners is available upon request.