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Colorectal surgery is a field in medicine, dealing with disorders of the rectum or anus. The field is also known as proctology, but the term is outdated in the more traditional areas of medicine. The word proctology is derived from the Greek words Proktos, meaning anus or hindparts, and Logos meaning science or study.

Physicians specializing in this field of medicine are more commonly called colorectal surgeons, or less commonly, proctologists. Colorectal surgeons often work closely with urologists.

In the United States, some surgeons (MDs) are certified by the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery while some osteopathic surgeons (DOs), which are also equally licensed proctologists, are certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Proctology. DOs may attain board certification under the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery while MDs may not attain board certification under the American Osteopathic Board of Proctology.

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15y ago

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