Procedures and Definitions

Anal Abscess/Fistula:

Anal Cancer:

Anal cancers are cancers of the skin around the anus and just inside the anal opening.  They are not a common form of cancer, and are effectively treated.  Read more about this condition here.

Anal Fissures:

An anal fissure is a small cut or tear of the skin around the anus.  They are painful, and often bleed.  Read more about this condition here.

Anal Warts:

Anal warts are tiny spots or growths around and inside the anus.  Although usually not painful, they may cause itching, bleeding, or mucus discharge.  You may also feel a "lump" in the area of the warts.  Anal warts will spread if not removed.  Read more about this condition here.

Colonoscopy:

A colonoscopy is a procedure, performed by Dr. Monga, that allows him to see the interior lining of the anus, rectum, and colon.  It is performed under sedation at an area facility.  Read more about this procedure at the Colonoscopy-FAQs page.

Colorectal Cancer:

Colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer US, 60,000 deaths each year.  Most common in those over 40, there is general agreement that nearly all cancers of the colon and rectum begin as benign polyps.  Discovery and removal of these polyps through routine colonoscopy is an important part of prevention.  Read more about this condition here.

Constipation:

Constipation is the inability to have a bowel movement, or the decrease in bowel output.  If this condition persists for more than three weeks, consult your physician.  Addition, if there is blood in the stool, a physician should be consulted.  Read more about this condition here.

Diverticular Disease:

Diverticula are tiny pockets in the wall of the colon, and are present in most people.  Diverticulosis is the diagnosis for the presence of these tiny pockets, and is neither harmful nor painful.  However, when one or more of these small pockets become infected, the diagnosis becomes diverticulitis.  Diverticulitis may cause abdominal pain, chills, fever or a change in bowel habits.  Treatment can range from antibiotics and dietary changes to, in extreme cases, surgery.  Read more about this condition here.

Hemorrhoids:

Hemorrhoids are enlarged blood vessels in and around the anus and lower rectum.  Common causes include pregnancy, heredity, chronic constipation or diarrhea.  Treatment varies from warm baths to dietary changes to, in the most extreme cases, surgery.  Read more about this condition here.

Incontinence:

Incontinence refers to issues controlling gas or stool.  There are many causes, ranging from tears in anal muscles during childbirth to natural loss of muscle tone due to age.  Treatment ranges from dietary changes to, in extreme cases, surgery.  Read more about this condition here.

Pilonidal Cysts:

Pilonidal Cysts are abscesses, usually in the cleft between the buttocks, caused by hairs embedded in the skin.  Minor surgery is frequently required to resolve this issue.  Read more about this condition here.

Polyps of the Colon & Rectum:

Polyps are small abnormal masses in the colon and/or rectum.  Although they are usually benign, it is important that they be identified and removed because their presence is related to development of certain cancers of the colon and rectum.  Most polyps are identified and removed during a colonoscopy.  Read more about this condition here.

Pruritis Ani:

Pruritis Ani is the formal name for itching around the anus, resulting in a compulsion to scratch.  There are a number of causes, including excess moisture in the area due to sweat, or incomplete wiping after a bowel movement.  Other causes may be dietary or lifestyle-related, such as smoking or drinking.  Read more about this condition here.

Rectal Prolapse:

Rectal Prolapse is a condition caused by the weakening of the anal muscles.  These muscles, once weakened, allow the lining of the rectum to protrude outside of the anus.  More common in women than in men, surgery is generally required to resolve this issue.  Read more about this condition here.

Ulcerative Colitis:

Ulcerative Colitis is an inflammation of the lining of the colon and rectum. Symptoms include rectal bleeding, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, weight loss, and fevers.  Patients who have this condition for long periods of time are at an increased risk of developing colon cancer.  Treatment is generally by medication, but in severe cases surgery may be required.  Read more about this condition here.