Experienced Colorectal Surgical Care at Penn Highlands Healthcare

What Is Colorectal Surgery?

Colorectal surgery is specialized care for colon, rectum and anus conditions. Common conditions treated by colorectal surgeons include colitis, rectal prolapse, bowel obstruction, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), anal cancer, colon polyps and more. Colorectal surgeons utilize innovative treatments and procedures to provide patients with world-class colorectal care.

When Is Colorectal Surgery Needed?

Your gastroenterologist will run a series of tests to diagnose the problem you’re dealing with. A colonoscopy may determine the cause of issues in your colon, such as IBD, bowel obstructions or colon polyps. Your GI specialist may also recommend a Cologuard test. Cologuard is a new, stool-based test you take at home, and the results are then sent to your primary care provider. Your specialist will start by exploring nonsurgical treatments. If surgery is needed, your GI specialist will work closely with your colorectal surgeon team to create a personalized treatment plan.

Why Choose PHH for Colorectal Surgery?

Penn Highlands has the experience, technology and expertise to provide you with the most advanced care for colorectal conditions. Your colorectal team will work closely with specialists in gastroenterology, oncology, urology and other specialties to provide you with a comprehensive treatment plan. By utilizing the latest technology and cutting-edge treatments, our colorectal team provides excellent care that’s close to home.

Penn Highlands Healthcare now uses the da Vinci^® Xi Surgical System for certain types of colorectal surgeries. da Vinci Robotic-Assisted Surgery is a type of minimally invasive surgery where our specially trained surgeons use the da Vinci robotic-assisted surgical system to perform a wide range of delicate and complex operations. The da Vinci Xi System features a magnified 3D high-definition vision system and tiny wristed instruments that bend and rotate far greater than the human wrist. As a result, the da Vinci Xi System enables surgeons to operate with enhanced vision, precision, dexterity and control.

The primary, potential benefits of da Vinci Robotic-Assisted Surgery for patients include a shorter hospital stay, less blood loss, fewer complications, less need for pain medicines, a faster recovery and smaller incisions associated with minimal scarring.

Services We Provide

• Anorectal procedures to treat hemorrhoids
• Rectoceles
• Fissures and fistulas
• Robotic and minimally invasive surgery for colon cancer and inflammatory bowel disease
• Colonoscopy
• Treatments for fecal incontinence and prolapse
• Pilonidal disease