Colorectal Surgery Review
An academic, sponsor-free audio review of core concepts in colon and rectal surgery. Created by Dr. Allen Kamrava, an associate teaching faculty member at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, this series is designed for residents, fellows, and practicing surgeons. Each episode delivers concise, evidence-based updates covering textbook foundations, landmark trials, and evolving ASCRS guidelines. Practical surgical education is provided for the commute, workout, or winding down at night.
Episodes
Colon Cancer Staging, Surgical Management & Molecular Profiling
Welcome to Colorectal Surgery Review. In this episode, we deliver a high-yield clinical breakdown of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Colon Cancer.Designed for practicing colon and rectal surgeons, surgical oncologists, general surgeons, and senior trainees preparing for board certification or recertification exams, this d
ASCRS Guidelines: Anorectal Abscess, Fistula-in-Ano & RVF
Join us for an in-depth clinical review of the 2022 American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Anorectal Abscess, Fistula-in-Ano, and Rectovaginal Fistula.In this episode, we break down the latest evidence-based algorithms, anatomical pearls, surgical techniques, and clinical pitfalls needed for surgical practice and board exam preparat
ASCRS Guidelines: Chronic Anal Fissure Management
Join us for a comprehensive clinical review of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Anal Fissures.In this episode, we move beyond basic definitions to examine the vascular mechanics, randomized trial data, and surgical algorithms needed to break the cycle of internal sphincter hypertonia and ischemia. Whether you are updating
ERAS in Colorectal Surgery: ASCRS & SAGES Guidelines
A clinical deep dive into the 2022 and 2023 ASCRS and SAGES guidelines for Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS). We cover carbohydrate loading, bowel prep, SSI bundles, fluid management, the NSAID leak debate, and early discharge.Join us for an evidence-based clinical review of the 2022 and 2023 American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) and Society of American Gastrointestinal and En
Enhanced Recovery After Colorectal Surgery (ERAS)
Join us for a detailed clinical dissection of the updated American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) and Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) Clinical Practice Guidelines for Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS).In this episode, we move past basic ERAS concepts to explore the precise physiological mechanisms, statistical realities, and trial data behind
ASCRS Guidelines: Anal Squamous Cell Cancer Management
Join us for a detailed clinical breakdown of the 2018 American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) Clinical Practice Guidelines for Anal Squamous Cell Cancer. In this episode, we dive into the virology, staging nuances, landmark trial data, and treatment paradigms every practicing surgeon, oncologist, and board candidate needs to master.Key Topics Covered in This Episode:Etiology & Ri
Ambulatory Anorectal Surgery Explained
Join us for a comprehensive clinical review of the 2015 American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) Clinical Practice Guidelines for Ambulatory Anorectal Surgery. In this episode, we break down the most relevant surgical directives and statistical realities to help you optimize patient care from the moment of selection to the final post-discharge follow-up.If you are looking to update yo
Rectal Prolapse
Reviews the Broden and Snellman theory of rectal prolapse as a progressive internal intussusception. The episode clarifies the misnomer of solitary rectal ulcer syndrome—where true ulcers only appear in 23% of cases—and outlines its precise operative indications. Crucially, it highlights registry data showing that perineal approaches (Altemeier, Delorme) carry a four-times greater relative mortali
Treatment of Difficult-Obstructive Defecation
Unpacks Obstructive Defecation Syndrome (ODS), starting with the absolute necessity of pelvic floor biofeedback over surgical intervention for dyssynergic defecation. It details the strict millimeter-based grading systems for structural defects like rectoceles and enteroceles. The operative discussion highlights the abandonment of the STARR procedure due to a 40% long-term recurrence rate, instead
Evaluation of Constipation and Treatment of Abdominal Component
Explores the diagnostic and surgical algorithms for chronic refractory constipation. It clearly differentiates slow transit constipation (colonic inertia) from IBS-C utilizing the 5-day radiopaque marker study rule (retention of >20% markers). The episode breaks down the latest pharmacotherapy, including secretagogues and PAMORAs for opioid-induced constipation, and thoroughly dissects the sign
Common Tests for the Pelvic Floor
A deep dive into the physiological and mechanical evaluation of pelvic floor disorders. The episode examines the hardware evolution of manometry from water-perfused catheters to high-resolution systems, and the standardization of dyssynergic defecation phenotypes via the London Protocol. It also reviews the diagnostic utility of the balloon expulsion test and compares the true physiological advant
Functional Disorders After Colorectal Surgery - IBS
Focuses on distinguishing and managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome using the rigid Rome IV criteria. It issues a stark warning against operating on functional visceral hypersensitivity, detailing how elective resections for symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease frequently fail to relieve pain. The episode reviews targeted pharmacotherapy based on IBS subtypes (e.g., eluxadoline for IBS-D and
Abdominal Wall Reconstruction and Parastomal Hernia
Tackles the inevitable biomechanical failure of parastomal hernias, which eventually affect nearly all permanent stoma patients. It emphasizes strict preoperative optimization goals, including a BMI under 35, an A1C under 8, and absolute smoking cessation. The discussion covers the mechanical superiority of the Sugarbaker mesh drape geometry over the keyhole technique, and explores advanced retrom
Intestinal Stomas
A comprehensive guide to the physiological and mechanical management of stomas. Key topics include the massive clinical and financial benefits of preoperative WOCN education, and advanced troubleshooting for stoma complications like peristomal pyoderma gangrenosum and bleeding parastomal varices. The episode explores the exact sodium-glucose transporter (SGLT1) mechanics that make WHO oral rehydra
Radiation, Microscopic, and Ischemic Colitis
This episode unpacks three deceptive colitis presentations. For chronic radiation proctitis, driven by obliterative endarteritis, the biggest takeaway is strictly avoiding mucosal biopsies to prevent catastrophic fistulas. Microscopic colitis (collagenous and lymphocytic) presents with watery diarrhea and normal gross mucosa, requiring specific targeted biopsies and treatment with budesonide. Fina
Clostridium difficile Infection
A high-yield breakdown of Clostridioides difficile, focusing on the hypervirulent Ribotype 027 strain driving increased hospital morbidity. The episode details the clinical shift away from metronidazole to oral vancomycin or fidaxomicin, and the surprising paradox that mechanical bowel prep with oral antibiotics actually reduces postoperative CDI risk. For surgical management of fulminant colitis,
Infectious Colitis
This episode explores the ultimate "chameleons" of the GI tract, featuring bacterial, parasitic, and viral infections that mimic surgical emergencies. Learn how to avoid operating on a Campylobacter infection mimicking acute appendicitis or a Yersinia infection masquerading as Crohn's disease. The review highlights the shift to azithromycin over fluoroquinolones, the absolute contrai
Pelvic Pouch Complications
A salvage-focused guide for the failing pouch. We outline the "structured assessment" triad (Endoscopy, EUA, Imaging) to differentiate mechanical failure from sepsis or Crohn's misdiagnosis. The episode introduces the "Thoughtful Ileostomy" as a diagnostic tool and details management for specific phenotypes like "obesity-related asymmetric pouchitis". We also cove
Ulcerative Colitis - Surgical Management
A technical and strategic review of the IPAA (J-Pouch). We discuss the SCENIC guidelines shifting away from automatic colectomy for polypoid dysplasia. The episode covers the "3-stage" approach for high-risk patients, the PUCCINI study proving biologics do not increase leak risk, and technical maneuvers for gaining mesenteric length. Also reviewed is the hand-sewn vs. stapled debate, spe
Crohn's Disease - Surgical Management
Defines the role of the "Surgical IBDologist" and bowel-sparing strategies. We break down strictureplasty techniques (Heineke-Mikulicz, Finney, Michelassi) and introduce the Kono-S anastomosis, which shows promising data for reducing recurrence. The episode addresses the controversy of wide mesenteric excision (Coffey study), the management of the "victim sigmoid" in ileosigmoi
Anorectal Crohn's Disease
Focused on perianal pathology, this episode establishes MRI as the gold standard for mapping complex fistulas (Likelihood Ratio 22.7). We review Heller's Rule for fistula risk and the four core principles of management, prioritizing sepsis control over repair. The discussion includes the contraindication of steroids in perianal disease, the use of loose setons, and emerging therapies like adip
Crohn's Disease - Medical Management
A rigorous review of Crohn's pharmacotherapy, highlighting the "Do Nots": antibiotics and 5-ASAs have limited to no role in luminal disease. We explore the "Treat to Target" approach and the decision tree for Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM) when patients lose response. The episode also covers perioperative washout periods for biologics and the landmark LIR!C trial, which
Ulcerative Colitis - Medical Management
Tailored for surgeons, this review covers when medical therapy has failed. We discuss the shift from symptom control to "mucosal healing" and the specific risks of 5-ASAs and thiopurines (TPMT testing). The episode details the management of Acute Severe UC (ASUC) using modified Truelove and Witts criteria, the timeline for "salvage therapy" (Infliximab vs. Cyclosporine), and th
Inflammatory Bowel Disease - Diagnosis and Management
Updates on the diagnostic workup for IBD, emphasizing the "immigration effect" as proof of environmental triggers. We clarify phenotypic mimics to avoid surgical disasters, such as distinguishing "backwash ileitis" and the "cecal patch" from Crohn's disease. The session covers the crucial Rutgeerts score for post-op recurrence (treating an i2 score), the utility o
Inflammatory Bowel Disease - The How and Why
A high-yield look at the molecular and environmental drivers of IBD, moving beyond simple autoimmune definitions. We explore the "four pillars" of pathogenesis, including the NOD2 gene's role in autophagy defects and the specific dysbiosis signatures (low Firmicutes, high Proteobacteria). The episode explains the global rise of IBD in newly industrialized nations and how understandin
Colon and Rectal Trauma
This episode dismantles the historical dogma of mandatory fecal diversion, advocating for primary repair even in destructive colon injuries based on the Stone and AAST trials. We review the obsolete "4Ds" of rectal trauma, explaining why distal washout and presacral drains are now considered harmful risk factors. The discussion includes damage control principles (the lethal triad), the s
Endometriosis
A targeted review for the colorectal surgeon on managing Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis (DIE). The episode highlights the diagnostic delay (7–12 years) and the critical "negative sliding sign" on physical exam. We navigate the surgical decision tree—shave vs. disc excision vs. segmental resection—based on the size and depth of the lesion. Also covered is the "systemic disease"
Lower GI Bleeds
Essential knowledge for the management of Lower GI Hemorrhage (LGIB), a common and high-stakes emergency. Initial management requires recognizing if the source is likely upper GI (hematochezia plus instability) and strict transfusion targets (Hgb 7; Hgb 9 for cardiovascular risk patients). Risk stratification hinges on the Shock Index and the Oakland Score, where a score of eight or less predicts
Large Bowel Obstruction
A crucial review of Large Bowel Obstruction (LBO), emphasizing the foundational physiology of the closed-loop obstruction caused by a competent ileocecal valve, leading to imminent perforation risk dictated by the Law of Laplace (highest risk at the cecum). CT is the definitive modality for locating the transition point. Management of malignant LBO is highly sensitive; emergency right colectomy is
Diverticulosis
This episode reviews the significant evolution in the management of colonic diverticular disease, moving past old dogmas like the "second episode rule" and simple fiber deficiency hypothesis. Level 1 trials (Diabolo/AVOD) definitively show that antibiotics are not mandatory for stable, uncomplicated diverticulitis. The current indication for elective surgery is now based solely on sympto
Minimally Invasive Surgery
Comprehensive review of Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) for colorectal cancer, distinguishing the settled science of laparoscopic colon resection from the ongoing controversy of rectal resection. The episode details how pivotal trials (ACOSOG, ALaCaRT) failed to prove non-inferiority for laparoscopic proctectomy, primarily due to higher rates of compromised Circumferential Radial Margin (CRM) in
Cytoreduction and HIPEC
Explores Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS) and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) for Colorectal Peritoneal Metastases (CPM). Success relies entirely on meticulous patient selection and achieving complete macroscopic cytoreduction (CC0). The episode details the Peritoneal Cancer Index (PCI) for staging and emphasizes that for aggressive CPM, CC1 is essentially a failure to cure, whereas i
GIST, Neuroendocrine Tumors and Lymphoma
Focuses on three complex non-epithelial entities that demand specialized algorithms. For GIST, diagnosis is based on CD117 (KIT) and DOG1, and management hinges on molecular genetics (Exon 11 is favorable; Exon 9 requires higher imatinib dosing). Rectal GIST presents a core dilemma, as local excision carries a strikingly high local recurrence rate (up to 77%); neo-adjuvant imatinib is used to down
Appendiceal Neoplasms
A detailed analysis of appendiceal neoplasms, highlighting how management is strictly driven by histology and classification. For invasive adenocarcinoma, a formal right hemicolectomy (RHC) is the standard due to the high risk of nodal metastasis (up to 30%). For mucinous neoplasms (LAMN/HAMN), the management pivots away from RHC to aggressive surveillance, driven by the critical distinction betwe
Rectal Cancer - Local Recurrence
This episode tackles the highly complex and morbid radical management of Locally Recurrent Rectal Cancer (LRC), a disease defined as extra-TME pathology, operating in dense, irradiated, fibrotic tissue. Achieving an R0 resection is the single biggest determinant of cure (40-50% 5-year OS). Planning requires mandatory Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) input and combined PTCT/MRI, recognizing the limitat
Management of Colorectal Metastases
A deep dive into the aggressive, curative-intent management of stage IV colorectal cancer with distant metastasis, fueled by an average 40% 5-year overall survival rate for resectable liver metastases. The discussion centers on critical decision points, including sequencing for resectable synchronous metastases (neo-adjuvant chemo is preferred for high-volume disease to assess tumor biology). For
Adjuvant Therapy for Colorectal Cancer
A high-yield review of the post-operative management of resected stage II and III colorectal cancer. Key topics include the non-negotiable need for adjuvant chemotherapy (chemo) in stage III patients, leveraging landmark trials like MOSAIC. The episode details the paradigm shift in duration: 3 months of CAPOX is now the standard for low-risk stage III disease following the IDEA collaboration, redu
Rectal Cancer - Proctectomy
This episode reviews the technical and academic principles governing Proctectomy for Rectal Cancer, highlighting that the foundation of modern care is Total Mesorectal Excision (TME). We emphasize the consequences of surgical failure, noting that a Circumferential Resection Margin (CRM) of less than 1 mm carries a local recurrence rate greater than 50%.The episode details the meticulous anatomy re
Rectal Cancer - Non-operative Management
This episode details the revolutionary Watch and Wait (WW) strategy, the most significant paradigm shift in modern rectal cancer care. We distinguish PCR (Pathological Complete Response, post-surgical) from CCR (Clinical Complete Response, the goal for organ preservation), and discuss how Total Neoadjuvant Therapy (TNT) maximizes the CCR rate. The primary motivation for WW is avoiding the guarante
Rectal Cancer - Local Excision
This deep dive focuses on the high-stakes risk-benefit analysis of Local Excision (LE) for rectal cancer, balancing the functional benefits of organ preservation against the critical risk of missing occult lymph node metastases. We trace the technical path from conventional surgery to the modern standard of TAMIS (Transanal Minimally Invasive Surgery), emphasizing that oncologic LE requires an en
Rectal Cancer - Neoadjuvant Therapy in 2025
This episode explores the evolution of rectal cancer management to Total Neoadjuvant Therapy (TNT), driven by the failure of traditional trimodal approaches to address the high (30–40%) risk of distant recurrence. We review the foundational role of Total Mesorectal Excision (TME) and high-resolution MRI staging, which identifies a threatened Circumferential Resection Margin (<1 mm) as a mandate
Colorectal Cancer - Operative Principles
This academic review details the foundational principles and technical specifics of colectomy for colon cancer, emphasizing the oncologic triad of achieving negative circumferential margins, removing the entire mesentery, and accurate staging. We confirm the mandatory margin requirement is a minimum of 5 cm proximally and distally. We address localization challenges, detailing the critical techniq
Preop Planning and Staging of Colorectal Cancer
This episode provides a comprehensive review of pre-operative evaluation and staging for colorectal cancer, emphasizing the shift toward highly reproducible imaging and personalized risk stratification. We detail screening methods and clarify when pre-operative biopsy is mandatory (absolutely required for rectal tumors to obtain immediate MMR testing). We establish the modern definition of the rec
Malignant Polyps - What to do?
This deep dive tackles the challenging management of the malignant polyp (early T1 colorectal cancer), focusing on the pivotal decision point: endoscopic cure versus formal surgical resection. We review key precursor lesions (adenomas, sessile serrated lesions or SSLs) and the critical anatomical distinction of invasion beyond the muscularis mucosa.A major focus is on predicting invasion depth usi
Colorectal Cancer - Sporadic vs. Inherited
This episode of Colorectal Surgery Review provides a focused, deep dive into the absolute current state-of-the-art management of Colorectal Cancer (CRC). Targeted specifically toward practicing clinicians and academic colorectal surgeons, the discussion dissects the fundamental molecular biology, changing epidemiology, screening variance, and the critical nuances in surgical and medical treatment
Presacral Tumors
The Deep Dive: Presacral Tumors – The Deep Dive on Anatomy, Nerve Preservation, & Oncologic StrategyThis episode tackles the incredibly rare but complex topic of presacral tumors. Though they are rarely encountered, maybe appearing in only one in 40,000 hospital admissions, they present high stakes due to their location near critical nerves and vessels, requiring a solid, almost academic under
Anal Cancer
This episode of Colorectal Surgery Review provides a comprehensive deep dive into the evolving management of anal cancer, focusing on key clinical updates and the minutiae essential for effective practice.Key Discussion Points:The Paradigm Shift: The episode explores the foundational change in treatment from radical surgery to definitive chemoradiation (CRT) as the standard of care for most anal c
Anal Dysplasia
This episode offers a rigorous academic deep dive into Anal Intraepithelial Neoplasia (AIN), a critical premalignant condition driven overwhelmingly by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Essential for practicing and board-certified colon and rectal surgeons, this review tackles the nuances, fundamental changes in nomenclature, and evidence-based management of this disease.Nomenclature Standardizatio
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
This crucial episode delivers a deep dive into an essential, rapidly evolving, and clinically critical domain for practicing surgeons and clinicians. We tackle the surge in sexually transmitted infections (STIs)—including Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Syphilis, and HPV—and focus on their rising prevalence within the anorectum.STIs in this region are often "diagnostic masquerades," mimicking comm
Pruritis Ani
Pruritus ani—chronic itching around the anus—is one of the most common yet frustrating conditions in colorectal practice. Often dismissed as a minor problem, it can severely impact quality of life and frequently overlaps with dermatologic disease. In this episode, we bring dermatology and colorectal care together to explore the full spectrum of causes, evaluation strategies, and treatment options
Pilonidal Disease & Hidradenitis Supporativa
Pilonidal disease and hidradenitis suppurativa are two chronic, often misunderstood conditions that significantly impact quality of life. Though different in origin, they share common themes of recurrent infection, inflammation, and the need for thoughtful long-term management. In this episode, we take a deep dive into both conditions, outlining their anatomy, causes, diagnostic challenges, and mo
Rectovaginal Fistulas
Rectovaginal fistulas are among the most difficult and emotionally impactful conditions in colorectal surgery. In this episode, we explore the causes, diagnosis, and management of rectovaginal fistulas with a focus on both the surgical and human aspects of care.We begin by breaking down the anatomy and mechanisms that lead to fistula formation, including obstetric injury, surgical complications, i
Rectourethral and Complex Fistulas
Rectourethral and complex fistulas represent some of the most challenging conditions in colorectal and urologic surgery. In this episode, we take a structured deep dive into the anatomy, causes, diagnostic pathways, and management strategies for these rare but highly impactful problems.The discussion begins with the basics—how rectourethral fistulas form, whether from surgical complications, radia
Anorectal Abscesses and Fistulas
Anorectal abscesses and fistulas are among the most complex and misunderstood conditions in colorectal disease. In this in-depth episode, we take a clear, step-by-step journey into the anatomy, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment strategies surrounding cryptoglandular disease. Whether you are a medical trainee, a healthcare professional, or a patient seeking to understand your own condition,
Anal Fissures and Anal Stenosis
In this episode, we take a comprehensive look at two challenging colorectal conditions: anal fissures and anal stenosis. Listeners will learn how to differentiate between them, understand the underlying anatomy and causes, and explore both conservative and surgical treatment strategies. With a clear, physician-led breakdown, this discussion blends clinical expertise with practical insights for pat
Endoscopic Management of Polyps
This "Colorectal Surgery Review" episode provides a deep dive into the rapidly evolving field of advanced endoscopy, framing it as a new surgical frontier called "endoluminal surgery." The discussion is aimed at colorectal surgeons and trainees, highlighting critical techniques, evolving evidence, and key nuances for board exams and clinical practice.Key topics covered in the e
Hemorrhoids
This episode of "Colorectal Surgery Review" provides a comprehensive guide to hemorrhoidal disease for clinicians, with a focus on details relevant for board exams and clinical practice. The hosts emphasize that hemorrhoids are normal anatomical structures (vascular cushions) and only require treatment when they become symptomatic.Key topics covered in the episode include:Anatomy and Cla
Fecal Incontinence - Evaluation & Treatment
Key topics covered in the episode include:Definition and Physiology: Fecal incontinence is defined as the uncontrolled passage of stool or gas for at least one month in a person who had previously achieved continence. Continence relies on a complex interplay of five factors: stool consistency, anal sphincter function, rectal compliance (the rectum's ability to store stool), neurologic function
Colonosocopies
In this episode, we review the principles and practice of endoscopy in colorectal surgery. Topics include indications for diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy, scope design and function, and the essential steps for safe technique. We cover screening colonoscopy, polypectomy, management of bleeding, and evaluation of inflammatory bowel disease, as well as the role of endoscopy in cancer detection a
The Physiology of the Anus & Rectum
This episode reviews the physiology of the anorectum, focusing on the mechanisms of continence and defecation. We cover the anatomy and function of the internal and external anal sphincters, the puborectalis muscle, and the rectoanal inhibitory reflex. Sensory pathways, autonomic and somatic innervation, and the role of the pelvic floor are explained in detail, along with the coordination required
Colonic Physiology
In this episode, we explore the physiology of the colon — a vital but often misunderstood organ. Beginning with embryology, we review how the colon and rectum develop from the primitive gut, including the rotations of the midgut and the complex differentiation of the cloaca. These processes explain congenital anomalies such as malrotation, Hirschsprung’s disease, and anorectal malformations.We the
Anatomy & Embryology of the Colon, Rectum & Anus
We begin with the anal canal and pelvic floor. In colorectal surgery, it’s important to distinguish between the anatomic anal canal and the surgical anal canal. Continence depends on a coordinated set of muscles: the internal and external anal sphincters, and the puborectalis. The canal is lined by different epithelial types, with the dentate line as the critical landmark. That line separates endo
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