A Colorectal Surgeon, formerly known as a proctologist, is a general surgeon who has undergone further training in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the colon, rectum and anus. Colon and rectal surgeons are experts in the surgical and non-surgical treatment of colon and rectal problems.

Do general surgeons do colon surgery?

Conclusion: General surgeons perform a substantial number of colon resections and relatively few anorectal cases. It is unclear whether this is an issue of anorectal training in general surgery programs or referral patterns.

Do gastroenterologists perform surgery?

Gastroenterologists frequently work with surgeons in helping them select the best operation for a particular patient.