What Is a Proctologist?

Proctologists, more frequently referred to as colorectal surgeons, are doctors. Colorectal surgery is a medical specialization with a focus on conditions affecting the anus and rectum. Colorectal surgeons are usually MDs. Their educational requirements typically include undergraduate work in pre-medicine or biology, medical school and an extensive surgical residency. Following the surgical residency additional specialized surgical training focused on the colon and rectum is required.

Board Certification

• Beyond the standard education requirements, colorectal surgeons are also required to pass a series of written and oral exams, submit surgical records and obtain recommendations to become board certified in the field of colorectal surgery.

Conditions

• Colorectal surgeons specialize in treating hemorrhoids, prolapsed rectums, fistulas, colon cancer, constipation and incontinence.

D.O.s

• An D.O., or doctor of osteopathic medicine, can also become a colorectal surgeon. The training requirements for the specialization are equivalent between MDs and D.O.s in terms of certification.

Patients

• The vast majority of rectal and lower intestinal problems do not require the services of a colorectal surgeon. Most of these conditions can be treated by a family physician or general practitioner. A colorectal surgeon generally treats the most severe or unusual problems of the colon and rectum.

Continuing Education

• Like most medical personnel, colorectal surgeons are subject to stringent continuing education requirements, up to 100 hours a year, and must also periodically re-certify in their specialty. This helps ensure that the quality of care provided does not lag behind the most current techniques and information.