Colorectal Surgery in Athens, GA

Why Colorectal Surgery Matters

Many colorectal conditions can worsen over time if left untreated. Early evaluation and timely surgical care may help reduce complications, improve outcomes, and support faster recovery.

For some patients, surgery may relieve chronic pain or digestive symptoms that interfere with everyday life. For others, it may play an essential role in treating cancer, repairing structural issues, or restoring bowel function.

At St. Mary’s Health Care System, patients benefit from:

• Advanced minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgical techniques
• Personalized treatment planning
• Coordinated care across specialties
• Reduced recovery times when appropriate
• Compassionate support before, during, and after surgery

Our surgical teams work closely with imaging specialists, gastroenterologists, primary care providers, and rehabilitation professionals to ensure every patient receives comprehensive care tailored to their needs.

Conditions Treated with Colorectal Surgery

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer develops in the colon or rectum and often begins as small growths called polyps. Early diagnosis and treatment are important because colorectal cancer may not cause symptoms in its early stages.

Surgery is often one of the most effective treatment options and may involve removing cancerous tissue while preserving as much healthy digestive function as possible.

Diverticulitis and Diverticular Disease

Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches in the colon become inflamed or infected. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, fever, bloating, nausea, or changes in bowel habits.

While many cases can be managed medically, surgery may be recommended for recurrent infections, severe inflammation, or complications affecting the colon.

Hemorrhoids, Anal Fissures, and Fistulas

Conditions affecting the anal and rectal area can cause pain, irritation, bleeding, or discomfort during bowel movements. When conservative treatments are not effective, minimally invasive surgical procedures may provide long-term relief.

Bowel Obstruction

A bowel obstruction occurs when part of the intestine becomes blocked, preventing normal movement through the digestive tract. Symptoms may include severe abdominal pain, vomiting, constipation, and bloating.

Some bowel obstructions require emergency surgical treatment to restore normal digestive function and prevent complications.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease Complications

Patients with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis may require surgery when chronic inflammation causes strictures, bleeding, infection, or severe symptoms that no longer respond to medication.

Colorectal Procedures and Surgical Services Offered

Minimally Invasive and Robotic Colorectal Surgery

Whenever appropriate, our surgeons use minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgical techniques to reduce incision size, minimize pain, and support faster healing. Robotic technology also allows for enhanced precision and visualization during complex procedures.

Patients undergoing minimally invasive surgery may experience:

• Smaller incisions
• Less post-operative discomfort
• Shorter hospital stays
• Faster return to daily activities
• Reduced scarring

Colon Resection (Colectomy)

A colectomy removes a diseased or damaged portion of the colon. This procedure may be recommended for colorectal cancer, diverticulitis, bowel obstruction, or inflammatory bowel disease.

Whenever possible, surgeons reconnect healthy portions of the digestive tract to preserve normal bowel function.

Rectal Surgery

Rectal surgery may be used to treat rectal cancer, prolapse, fistulas, or other structural conditions affecting bowel control and quality of life.

Our team carefully evaluates each patient to determine the safest and most effective surgical approach.

Hemorrhoid and Anorectal Procedures

For patients with painful hemorrhoids, fissures, or fistulas, surgical treatment may help relieve persistent symptoms and improve comfort when non-surgical treatments have not been successful.

Diagnostic Colonoscopy and Surgical Evaluation

Colonoscopy and imaging studies help identify colorectal conditions early and guide treatment decisions. These diagnostic tools are often an important part of surgical planning.

What to Expect when Referred for Colorectal Surgery

Your care journey begins with a detailed consultation and evaluation. During this visit, your surgical team will review your symptoms, medical history, imaging results, and any prior testing to better understand your condition and treatment options.

Diagnostic testing may include:

• Colonoscopy
• Computed tomography (CT) scans
• Laboratory testing
• Physical examination
• Additional gastrointestinal evaluation when needed

Once a treatment plan is developed, our team will guide you through every step of the process so you know what to expect before surgery, during recovery, and afterward.

Depending on the procedure, surgery may be performed using robotic-assisted, laparoscopic, or traditional open techniques. General anesthesia is typically required.

We understand that surgery can feel overwhelming. Our team prioritizes patient education, communication, and emotional support so you can move forward with greater confidence and clarity.

Recovery and Ongoing Care

Recovery timelines vary depending on the procedure and the complexity of the condition being treated. Many patients who undergo minimally invasive procedures experience shorter recovery periods and less post-operative discomfort.

During recovery, your care may include:

• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing
• Dietary guidance and digestive support
• Pain management planning
• Activity and lifting restrictions during healing
• Long-term monitoring for chronic conditions or cancer surveillance

Patients recovering from colorectal surgery may also benefit from coordinated rehabilitation, nutritional guidance, and ongoing digestive care.

At St. Mary’s, we remain connected to your care long after surgery is complete because healing continues beyond the operating room.

Care at Athens General & Colorectal Surgeons PC

Our colorectal surgery services are provided through a compassionate, highly experienced surgical team dedicated to helping patients throughout Athens and Northeast Georgia feel supported throughout every stage of care.

At St. Mary’s, patients benefit from:

• Advanced minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgical options
• Coordinated digestive and surgical care
• Personalized treatment planning
• Compassionate communication and education
• Access to comprehensive hospital and imaging services

We understand that digestive conditions can feel both physically and emotionally challenging. Our goal is to provide expert surgical care in an environment that feels welcoming, respectful, and supportive.

A Connected Approach to Care

Colorectal surgery at St. Mary’s is part of a fully connected healthcare system designed to support the whole patient, not just a diagnosis.

Our surgical teams collaborate closely with specialists across gastroenterology, medical imaging, primary care, oncology, anesthesia, and rehabilitation services to ensure seamless coordination throughout treatment and recovery.

This integrated approach allows patients to receive advanced surgical care while staying connected to the supportive services they may need before, during, and after surgery.