Procedures & Surgeries

Group of surgeons in operating room with surgery equipment
Gastroenterologist on blurred background using digital x-ray of human intestine holographic scan projection

The Colorectal Division of North Carolina Surgery at UNC REX specializes in many procedures and surgeries in Raleigh to help correct and reduce symptoms related to conditions affecting the digestive tract. We offer our patients the latest and least-invasive surgeries with the most desired outcomes. Our specialists will meet with you and review your health history carefully to develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and outcome goals.

We offer the following procedures and surgeries for colorectal conditions:

Anorectal Surgery

We specialize in minimally invasive anorectal surgery for conditions like hemorrhoids, anal fistulas, abscesses, fissures, and other anorectal disorders. This approach enables same-day discharge and rapid recovery for our patients.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Surgery

Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) may need to undergo a surgical procedure depending on the severity of their condition. The surgery is recommended for both types of IBD: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis (UC). Physicians recommend IBD surgery for chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract in both types of IBD: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis (UC).

Laparoscopic & Robotic Surgery for Colorectal Diseases

Our center offers laparoscopic and robotic surgery for all colorectal conditions, from cancer to benign diseases. With minimally invasive techniques and precise incisions, patients experience quicker, more comfortable recoveries, enabling them to resume their everyday lives promptly with minimal downtime.

Open Surgery

Some colorectal disease cases are no longer treatable using a minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure. Such circumstances include colorectal disease involving a large part of the digestive tract, too much scar tissue, patients who have undergone multiple surgeries, and severe or advanced colorectal disease. These cases require traditional open colorectal surgery.

Open surgery will involve a larger incision in the abdominal wall. While open surgery requires a more extended recovery period and a degree of post-surgical pain, our physicians will prescribe pain-control medication. The degree of pain and the exact length of recovery will depend on the health and healing ability of the patient.

Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery

Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) is a minimally invasive technique ideal for managing early-stage rectal cancer and benign rectal polyps. This advanced procedure allows for the precise removal of tumors or growths through the rectum, avoiding the need for more invasive open abdominal surgeries.

TEM offers several advantages, including shorter hospital stays, faster recovery times, and reduced postoperative discomfort. Surgeons can meticulously excise tumors or polyps by utilizing a specialized endoscope and microsurgical instruments.

Transanal endoscopic microsurgery is a valuable option for patients seeking a less invasive and highly effective treatment approach for rectal conditions.

The Expertise of Our Colorectal Surgeons

UNC REX’s colorectal surgeons bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the field of colorectal surgery.

  • Dr. Reza Rahbar specializes in minimally invasive surgery for inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer, and he also serves on the GI Health Foundation’s board of advisors.
  • Dr. Timothy Sadiq excels in diverse colorectal surgery, particularly in cases of inflammatory bowel disease and complex re-operative procedures.
  • Dr. Laura Altom is an expert in minimally invasive surgery for colorectal cancer and diverticulitis, as well as the treatment of anorectal diseases.
  • Dr. Meridith Ginesi focuses on advanced minimally invasive techniques for a wide range of colorectal issues, including cancers, inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis, and anorectal complaints.

Each surgeon brings their unique skills and dedication to providing top-notch patient care.

Why Choose Us?

Choose us for unparalleled colorectal care. Our experienced surgeons, Dr. Rahbar, Dr. Sadiq, Dr. Altom, and Dr. Ginesi, offer advanced procedures for conditions like IBD, colorectal cancer, and more. With a commitment to minimally invasive techniques, we ensure quicker recoveries. Trust us for exceptional expertise in a compassionate environment.

Your Consultation

Your consultation will start by listening to your symptoms. We will perform a physical exam, check your medical records, and diagnose your condition. Based on this information, we will recommend the optimal procedure or surgery.

We will create a surgical plan and then discuss the details of the procedure with you, including detailed preparation and recovery instructions. We will address all of your questions during the consultation.

Contact Us to Learn More

To learn more about our procedures and surgeries in Raleigh, visit us at UNC Rex Health Care. Fill out the Contact Us form to learn more about the procedures you are interested in. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!