Not all conditions require invasive surgery. In fact, we can effectively treat many colorectal conditions with dietary or lifestyle changes or medications. For those conditions requiring further intervention, we provide a wide range of colorectal services and surgical colorectal treatment. Some of the most common procedures include simple surgical excisions, rubber band ligations, infrared coagulation, and topical treatment of anal warts. We offer minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopy and robotic surgery, as well as conventional surgery.
If you are in need of any of the following colorectal services, we are conveniently located in Portland to serve patients in the surrounding areas. Schedule an appointment with either Dr. Browning, Dr. Cavanaugh, or Dr. Manchio to discuss whether or not surgery is necessary. If you are a candidate, the procedure will be discussed with you at length so that you know what to expect before, during, and after. Learn more by browsing the links in the lists below.
Colon Cancer Screening
Colorectal Cancer is a disease wherein abnormal cells in the colon or rectum divide at a rapid pace, ultimately forming a tumor.
The colon and rectum are parts of the body’s digestive system, which absorb nutrients from food and water and stores solid waste until it passes out of the body. Colorectal Screenings are meant to detect potential signs of Colorectal Cancer.
The tests will look at the structure of the colon itself to find any abnormalities. This is performed using either a scope placed into the rectum or with special imaging (x-ray) tests.
Polyps found during these tests can be removed prior to becoming cancerous. These tests can potentially prevent colorectal cancer.
Other tests check the stool for signs of cancer. These tests are less invasive and easier to have performed, but they are less likely to detect polyps.
These tests as well as others can be used preventative, when people have symptoms of colorectal cancer and other digestive diseases.
Constipation / Diarrhea
When constipated your bowel movements are difficult or happen less frequently than normal.
The normal window of time between bowel movements varies from person to person. Some people have bowel movements two times a day. Others have them only once or twice a week.
Going longer than three or more days without a bowel movement is usually too long. After three days, the stool or feces become harder and tougher to pass.
Symptoms include:
- Strained Bowel Movements
- Few or inconsistent Bowel Movements
- Hard or small stools
- Vomiting
- A sensitive or swollen abdomen/ abdominal pain
Unlike Constipation, when you have diarrhea, your bowel movements tend to be loose and watery.
Diarrhea usually lasts 2-3 days and can have several causes. It is typically not dangerous but may cause mild dehydration. Drinking fluids is extremely important.
Symptoms include:
- Sudden feeling to have a bowel movement
- Cramps
- Nausea & Vomiting
- Bloated Stomach
- Thin or loose Stools
More Serious symptoms include:
- Sudden Weight Loss
- Blood, undigested food or mucus in your stool
- Sudden Fevers
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS):
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a condition that affects the large intestine. It can cause abdominal pain, bloating, cramping and changes in bowel movements.
Some people with the condition experience constipation and or diarrhea. Others may experience both at various stages of their bowel movements. Although IBS can cause a great deal of discomfort, it is not harmful to the intestines.
There is no specific test for irritable bowel syndrome. However, through proper screening from your doctor it is possible to detect and treat the condition. Most people diagnosed with IBS can control their symptoms with proper diet, probiotics, stress management and medication.
Colitis and Diverticulosis
Colitis and diverticulitis are similar inflammatory bowel conditions. Colitis develops as a result of inflammation of the large intestine, also called the colon. Diverticulosis is the formation of numerous tiny pockets, or diverticula, in the lining of the bowel (typically in the large intestine). These bowel conditions share similar symptoms but colitis tends to be more severe. Diagnosing symptoms is usually not enough and more tests should be run by your doctor to insure proper treatment.
Diverticulitis occurs when there is inflammation and infection in one or more diverticula. This usually happens when outpouchings become blocked with waste, allowing bacteria to build up, causing infection.
Symptoms include:
- Diarrhea & constipation
- Fever and/or Chills
- Tenderness in the lower abdomen and/or painful cramps
Acid Reflux / Hertburn
Heartburn is a symptom you feel when acid reaches up and out of the stomach unto the esophagus. Heartburn can cause mild to severe pain in the chest. It usually occurs after a meal.
A circular muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter is found between your esophagus and stomach. This muscle is responsible for closing your esophagus after food passes to your stomach. If this muscle is weak or doesn’t close properly, the acid from your stomach can transition back into your esophagus. This is known as acid reflux.
The lining of your esophagus is thinner than the lining of your stomach. Thus, acid in your esophagus causes a burning sensation in your chest. This sensation is also known as heartburn. GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is a form of severe or chronic acid reflux that can lead to complications, such as cancer.
Symptoms include:
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Trouble swallowing
- Dry cough
- Sensation that stomach contents have come back up to the throat or mouth
- Burning sensation in the back of your throat
Ulcer Disease and H.Pylori
A peptic ulcer is a sore on the lining of your stomach or a small part of the small intestine called the duodenum. A peptic ulcer is usually described as a dull or burning pain in your stomach.
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) on the other hand is a type of bacteria. These pathogens can enter your body and live in your digestive lining. They can cause sores/ulcers, in the lining of your stomach or the upper part of your small intestine.
Symptoms include:
- Dull pain in your stomach
- Burning sensation in the stomach
- Bloating
- Feeling nauseous
- Weight loss
- Poor appetite
- Vomiting
Gluten Sensitivity
Gluten sensitivity or Gluten intolerance is a condition where a person reacts negatively after ingesting foods containing gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. People’s reactions to gluten sensitives vary.
Symptoms include:
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Joint pain
- Headache
- Pain or discomfort in the stomach
- Fatigue
Hepatitis and Liver Disease
Hepatitis is a viral disease that infects and inflames the liver. This is a hyper sensitive condition that demands medical attention as it may cause damage to the liver which is a vital organ.
The liver is responsible for:
- The production of bile which is essential in aiding digestion
- Excretion of toxins from the body
- The metabolism of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates
- Storage of glycogen, minerals, and vitamins
- Breakdown and absorption of plasma proteins
There are 5 different kinds of known versions of the Hepatitis virus:
Hepatitis A: This type of hepatitis is mainly transmitted by ingesting food or water contaminated by feces from a person infected with the hepatitis A virus.
Hepatitis B: This type is transmitted through puncture wounds or contact with infectious body fluids such as saliva, blood, or semen. This type is transmittable during intercourse.
Hepatitis C: This type is transmitted through direct contact with infected body fluids, typically through injection and sexual contact.
Hepatitis D: This type causes serious liver disease and is caused by the hepatitis D virus. The hepatitis D virus is contracted through puncture wounds or contact with infected blood. This is a rare form of hepatitis that occurs in conjunction with hepatitis B infection.
Hepatitis E: This type is a waterborne disease caused by the hepatitis E virus. The hepatitis E virus is mainly found in areas with poor sanitation and is typically caused by ingesting fecal matter. This form of the virus is common in underdeveloped countries like the Middle East, Asia, Central America, and Africa as is reported by the CDC.
Symptoms include:
- Dark urine
- Flu-like symptoms
- Fatigue
- Discolored stool
- Abdominal pain/discomfort
- Poor appetite
- Noticeable unexplained weight loss
- Jaundice