A colorectal surgeon is a doctor who cares for the large intestine, rectum and anus. Many people think they only treat colon cancer but in truth, you can see these specialists for a wide range of bowel and pelvic floor issues.
Colorectal surgeons train in both general surgery and advanced techniques for bowel problems. So, they can remove growths, repair damage and ease pain.
They also offer both keyhole (laparoscopic) and open surgery when needed. Read more: https://thecrcs.com/complete-guide-to-colorectal-cancer/.
That said, the expertise of colorectal surgeon covers diagnosis, treatment planning and ongoing support. On this page, we will let you in on the specific instances when you may be referred to a colorectal surgeon in Singapore. We will also show you what to expect during a consultation with a colorectal surgeon. Keep reading!
What are the Early Warning Signs of Colon Cancer?
One of the biggest problems with colorectal cancer is that it can grow quietly for years before it causes clear symptoms. However, there are some changes which should surely alert you that something isn’t alright thus the common question; what are the early warning signs of colon cancer? Here are some of the most notable potential early indicators of colon cancer;
- Changes in bowel habits: If you have colon cancer, you may notice that your stools look narrower than usual or that you need to strain. These shifts can come and go at first and often signal a growing lesion that narrows the colon. If the change lasts more than a few days, please see a colorectal surgeon in Singapore for a scope.
- Blood in your stool or on toilet paper: Bright red or dark tar-coloured blood can mean bleeding in the lower bowel. Small bleeds may happen for years without pain but over time, bleeding can lead to iron deficiency and tiredness. So, we recommend mentioning any bleeding to your doctor even if it stops.
- Unexplained weight loss and fatigue: Tumours can steal nutrients from your body and trigger an immune response. As a result, you may begin losing kilos even without changing your diet. Constant tiredness may follow, even after rest. So, if you feel weaker over months, be sure to get checked for colorectal issues.
- Persistent abdominal discomfort: This discomfort may include cramps, gas or pain that comes and goes. You might feel a constant urge to open your bowels but pass only small amounts. Discomfort that interferes with daily life can mean a lesion is blocking part of the colon. So, don’t ignore ongoing tummy pain.
Why Would my Doctor Refer me to a Colorectal surgeon?
Your family doctor or gastroenterologist may refer you to a colorectal surgeon in Singapore if they suspect that you have a condition that may require surgery in the colon, rectum, or anus.
For example, if an endoscopy or colonoscopy finds polyps, you’ll need a specialist to remove them safely. Importantly, persistent symptoms like bleeding, pain or sudden weight loss need expert assessment.
You may also be referred to a colorectal surgeon in Singapore after an imaging test such as a CT scan or MRI shows an abnormality. Example abnormalities that might warrant seeing this specialist include masses, strictures or diverticular disease.
Some conditions, like anal fistulas or severe haemorrhoids, require surgery beyond the scope of a general practitioner. However, referral is not a sign that you definitely have cancer.
It simply means that you need a focused assessment and tailored treatment plan. Your colorectal surgeon in Singapore might work alongside oncologists, radiologists and specialist nurses to guide you through the next steps, whether that means observation, medical therapy or surgery.
What to Expect at Your Colorectal Surgeon Consultation?
Your first visit to a colorectal surgeon in Singapore is a mixed bag of review and planning. First, you will begin with a medical history review where the surgeon will ask about your symptoms, family history and any tests you’ve had.
Be ready to discuss your diet, bowel habits and any pain you feel. What would then follow is a physical exam, which may include a gentle check of your abdomen and rectum.
This helps the surgeon find tender areas, lumps or changes in bowel muscle tone. If needed, the surgeon may perform an anoscopy or proctoscopy to check the lower rectum with a small camera.
After these steps, the surgeon will explain the findings and suggest next steps. This could be further tests—like a full colonoscopy—or a treatment plan.
If you need surgery, they will go through the procedure, recovery time and any risks. They will also discuss pain control and follow-up care.
You can ask about questions that worry you. Good consultants take time to explain in simple terms. They will show images, diagrams or test results to help you understand your condition.
Other Conditions Treated by a Colorectal Surgeon
It isn’t only cancer that may prompt a referral to your colorectal surgeon in Singapore. As you now understand, these specialists treat several other bowel and pelvic issues. Here are some other issues that your colorectal surgeon in Singapore can help with;
- Haemorrhoids: Enlarged veins in the anus can bleed, itch or hurt when you sit. If you’re seeing a colorectal surgeon in Singapore for these issues, they can offer rubber band ligation or minimally invasive surgery to remove problematic haemorrhoids. These treatments reduce pain without major downtime.
- Anal fissures and fistulas: Fissures are small tears in the anal lining that cause sharp pain and bleeding. Fistulas are tunnels that form between the anus and skin, often after infection. Both need expert repair to prevent chronic pain or infection. Your surgeon can use precise techniques to heal the tissue and preserve muscle function.
- Diverticular disease: Small pouches can form in the colon wall and become inflamed or bleed. Repeated attacks may require surgical removal of the affected segment. A colorectal surgeon can assess your risks and suggest keyhole surgery for quicker recovery. They can also guide diet and lifestyle changes to prevent flare-ups.
- Pelvic floor disorders: Conditions like rectal prolapse or faecal incontinence can greatly affect your quality of life. A skilled colorectal surgeon can repair weakened muscles or slipped bowel segments to restore normal function and ease discomfort. Post-op therapy often includes pelvic floor exercises guided by a physiotherapist.
In Closing
Seeing a colorectal surgeon in Singapore is not only about cancer. These specialists treat a range of bowel and pelvic floor conditions and early referral means a clearer diagnosis and gentler treatment.
So, don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Our Singapore colorectal surgery team offers expert care for cancer screenings, bowel disorders and pelvic floor issues.
We combine gentle techniques with clear, caring advice. Book your consultation now and take the first step towards lasting relief. Call or visit us today at;
Colorectal Care Specialists (CRCS)
3 Mount Elizabeth, #14-15, Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre,
Singapore 228510
