3,104
Colorectal Surgeons
100%
Accepting patients
86%
Most common: MD
FindClarity lists 3,104 colorectal surgeons nationwide. 100% are currently accepting new patients. The most common credential is MD (86%). 78% accept Medicare.
Colorectal surgeons specialize in surgical conditions of the colon, rectum, and anus. They treat colon and rectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis) when surgery is needed, diverticular disease, hemorrhoids, anal fissures, fistulas, rectal prolapse, and pelvic floor disorders.
After medical school, colorectal surgeons complete a five-year general surgery residency followed by a one-year fellowship in colon and rectal surgery. Their fellowship training provides expertise in complex colonic and pelvic operations that general surgeons may perform less frequently, including low rectal cancer resections, pouch procedures for ulcerative colitis, and advanced laparoscopic and robotic techniques.
Many patients feel embarrassed about colorectal conditions, which delays care. Colorectal surgeons understand this and are accustomed to putting patients at ease. Conditions like hemorrhoids, fissures, and fistulas are extremely common and highly treatable. For cancer, earlier referral to a specialist improves outcomes.
See a colorectal surgeon for colon or rectal cancer (surgical planning), inflammatory bowel disease requiring surgery (strictures, fistulas, failed medical therapy), complicated diverticulitis, hemorrhoids not responding to conservative treatment, anal fissures or fistulas, rectal prolapse, large colon polyps requiring surgical removal, and pelvic floor dysfunction. Your gastroenterologist or PCP will typically make the referral.
The consultation includes a review of your colonoscopy findings, imaging, and pathology reports. The surgeon will perform a focused exam (which may include a rectal exam). They will explain the surgical options, including whether minimally invasive (laparoscopic or robotic) approaches are appropriate, expected outcomes, and recovery timeline. For cancer cases, they coordinate with oncologists for a comprehensive treatment plan.
Consultation copay: $30-75 · Hemorrhoidectomy: $3,000-8,000 · Colectomy (laparoscopic): $15,000-40,000 · Rectal cancer resection: $20,000-60,000
Most hemorrhoids improve with dietary changes (fiber, hydration), over-the-counter treatments, and sitz baths. Surgery (hemorrhoidectomy or other procedures) is recommended for hemorrhoids that are large, prolapsing, thrombosed, or causing significant bleeding that does not respond to conservative treatment. Office procedures like rubber band ligation can treat many cases without formal surgery.
Most colon surgeries do not require a permanent colostomy. The surgeon reconnects the bowel after removing the diseased section. A temporary ostomy (rerouting the bowel to the skin surface) is sometimes needed to protect a healing connection, typically reversed in two to three months. Permanent colostomies are reserved for specific situations, usually very low rectal cancers or complex pelvic disease.
Laparoscopic or robotic colon surgery typically involves a hospital stay of two to four days. Return to normal activity takes two to four weeks. Open surgery requires a longer hospital stay (five to seven days) and recovery (four to six weeks). Bowel function takes a few weeks to normalize after any colon surgery. Your surgeon will guide dietary progression during recovery.
Products and services that complement your care.
Compare prescription prices at pharmacies near you and save up to 80% on your medications.
Compare PricesFindClarity may earn a commission from products recommended on this page.
Colorectal surgery is covered under medical insurance when medically indicated. Cancer-related surgeries, IBD operations, and procedures for symptomatic conditions all require prior authorization. Verify that the surgeon and facility are in-network. Stoma supplies (if an ostomy is placed) are covered under durable medical equipment benefits.