Minimally Invasive Colorectal Surgery
University of Chicago surgeons are using sophisticated minimally invasive surgical techniques to treat a wide range of colorectal problems. From removing cancerous growths to treating inflammatory bowel disease, our team of expert surgeons are performing advanced procedures through multiple small incisions (less than one inch), instead of long abdominal incisions.
The benefits of minimally invasive colorectal surgery versus open-abdominal procedures include:
- Less pain
- Less injury to tissue
- Minimal scarring
- Less blood loss
- Shorter hospital stay
- Faster return to normal activities
At the University of Chicago Hospitals, our physicians are leaders in treating colorectal problems. Our experienced surgeons are a key part of the team of specialists who have been recognized year after year by U.S.News & World Report for excellence in the treatment of digestive diseases and cancer.
University of Chicago colorectal surgeons have trained extensively with the thin instruments and miniature cameras used in minimally invasive surgery. Our surgeons also can perform some procedures via robot-assisted surgery, which can allow for greater range of motion during the procedure. These same experts are continuing to refine the art of minimally invasive surgery, by developing new surgical tools and studying innovative surgical techniques.
Procedures Offered
Below is a list of minimally invasive colorectal surgery procedures offered at the University of Chicago Hospitals. This list will continue to grow as we add more minimally invasive surgical options.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease Procedures
These procedures are used to treat Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and related inflammatory bowel disease problems.
- Small bowel resection: Removal of part of the small intestine
- Segmental colectomy/left or right colectomy: Removal of a portion of the colon
- Total abdominal colectomy: Removal of the entire colon
- Total proctocolectomy: Removal of the colon, rectum, and anus
- Restorative proctocolectomy with ileoanal pouch anastomosis: Following the removal of the colon and rectum, the small intestine is formed into a pouch and connected to the anus. This pouch allows for collection of waste, which can exit through the anus. Muscle function is left intact so bowel movements can be controlled.
- Stoma creation for fecal diversion: This surgery creates an opening in the abdomen for stool to pass through.
Colorectal Cancer Procedures
For diagnosis and treatment of cancers of the colon, rectum, and small bowel:
- Staging laparoscopy: These procedures are performed to determine the extent of the cancer, or to "stage" the cancer. Information gathered from this examination helps physicians create the best treatment plan.
- Segmental colectomy/left or right colectomy: Removal of a portion of the colon
- Abdominal perineal resection: Removal of the anus, rectum, sigmoid colon, and creation of a permanent colostomy
- Total abdominal colectomy: Removal of the entire colon
- Total proctocolectomy: Removal of the colon, rectum, and anus
- Small bowel resection: Removal of part of the small intestine
- Stoma creation for fecal diversion: This surgery creates an opening in the abdomen for stool to pass through.
Other, Benign Procedures
- Diagnostic laparoscopy: Physicians perform this procedure to diagnose disease.
- Small bowel resection (removal) for radiation enteritis
- Total abdominal colectomy: Removal of the colon for intractable chronic constipation, or familial polyposis
- Correction of volvulus, or twisting of the large intestine
- Segmental colectomy: Removal of part of the colon for ischemic bowel disease, or diverticular disease
- Rectopexy for rectal prolapse: This involves the surgical placement of internal sutures to secure the rectum in place.
More Information
- Minimally Invasive Colorectal Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Esophageal Surgery
