1 active alert Show

Surgical Care

Colorectal Surgery

Comprehensive care for a wide range of colorectal conditions

Our Program

ChristianaCare colorectal surgery program employs highly skilled, board-certified surgeons performing the most advanced procedures. We treat benign diseases of the small intestine, large intestine (colon), rectum and anus. We also specialize in cancer care of the colon, rectum and anus. We’ll work with you to build a treatment plan that delivers best-in-class colorectal care with exceptional outcomes.

Patient Story - Ronald Brown

When longtime plumber Ronald Brown (pictured above) had bleeding and discomfort, he knew it was time to get his plumbing checked. A colonoscopy revealed a large rectal tumor that would turn out to be cancer and had to be surgically removed by Dr. Palange. Ron is doing great now due to his minimally invasive surgery to remove his tumor.

Conditions Treated

ChristianaCare offers comprehensive care for a wide range of colorectal conditions, including:

  • Colon cancer: Cancer that forms in the large intestine. ChristianaCare offers a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, including surgery and chemotherapy.
  • Rectal cancer: Cancer that forms in the rectum, the lowest part of the large intestine that connects to the anus. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation. Your providers work as a team to determine which option or combination of therapies is best for you.
  • Anal cancer: A less common type of cancer that forms in the anus. Treatment options typically involve chemotherapy and radiation therapy, with a small percentage of patients requiring surgery.
  • Diverticulitis/Diverticulosis: A common problem that can present on a wide spectrum. The treatment is often nuanced, and your colorectal surgeon will discuss the best plan individualized for you.
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): A group of inflammatory bowel diseases, including Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's disease. ChristianaCare offers both medical and surgical management of IBD. We work closely with the gastroenterology team to ensure you receive the best treatment.
  • Hemorrhoids: Swollen veins in the rectum and anus. Treatment options vary depending on the severity. Office treatments are available and are well tolerated.
  • Fistula-en-Ano/Peri-anal Abscess: Abnormal connections between the anus and the skin around the anus, resulting in recurrent infections, or abscesses, or chronically draining wounds.
  • Anal fissures: Small tears in the lining of the anus. They cause severe pain and bleeding. Medical and surgical options are available.
  • Fecal incontinence: The inability to control bowel movements. ChristianaCare offers various treatment options to improve control.
  • Rectal Prolapse/Rectocele: When there is a weakness in your pelvic floor and the rectum protrudes out of the anus or bulges into the vagina. ChristianaCare Colorectal surgeons are experienced in minimally invasive surgical options to treat pelvic floor pathology.
  • Colonoscopy: Screening for colon polyps start at age 45 for the general population. Our colorectal surgeons are experienced endoscopists and perform many colonoscopies per year.

Why Choose ChristianaCare?

  • Experienced and board-certified surgeons: ChristianaCare's colorectal surgeons are highly skilled and experienced in performing a variety of procedures, including minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic surgery.
  • Multidisciplinary care: Our team of specialists, including gastroenterologists, oncologists, radiation therapists, and nurses, will work together to develop a personalized treatment plan for you.
  • Advanced technology: ChristianaCare uses the latest technology to diagnose and treat colorectal conditions, including minimally invasive surgical techniques.
  • Supportive care services: We offer a variety of support services to help you cope with the emotional and physical challenges of colorectal surgery.
Next Steps

If you are experiencing any symptoms of a colorectal condition, please schedule an appointment with a ChristianaCare doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for improving your chances of a full recovery.

Locations & Providers

ChristianaCare Colorectal Services at Helen F. Graham View Location

Helen F. Graham Cancer Center & Research Institute
4701 Ogletown-Stanton Road, Suite 4000
Newark, DE 19713

ChristianaCare Colorectal Services at Newark

4735 Ogletown-Stanton Road
MAP 1, Suite 216
Newark, DE 19713

Emergency entrance of Wilmington Hospital

ChristianaCare Colorectal Surgery Services at Wilmington View Location

501 West 14th Street
Wilmington Hospital
Gateway Building, Suite 2E15
Wilmington, DE 19801

Related Content

For the Love of Health Podcast

Learn more about Dr. Bruce Boman, medical director of Cancer Genetics and Stem Cell Biology at ChristianaCare, and how his team's research continues to make strides towards finding a cure for colon cancer, on the ChristianaCare podcast, For the Love of Health.

Learn how to tell if you are at high risk for colorectal cancer, and what can be done to manage your risk.
Bariatric surgery lifts limitations, lets the sunshine in