Medical Frontiers: Colorectal Surgery

PITTSBURGH (NewsRadio 1020 KDKA) — KDKA Radio's Robert Mangino and Dr. Gerald Pifer welcomed Dr. Sherif Rizk to discuss Colorectal surgery.

Dr. Rizk is the Clinal Director of the WPAHS Division of Colorectal Surgery.

Colorectal cancer treatment has changed drastically over the years. Today's medical advancements have allowed doctor's to give rectal cancer patients a temporary colostomy instead of a permanent colostomy.

Early diagnosis is also an advancement, as well as a flexible colonoscopy -- which has allowed screening for the general population and early detection for rectal cancer.

"Colorectal cancer is a disease where early detection leads to an earlier stage, which leads to a much better prognosis," said Dr. Rizk

Symptoms of colorectal cancer can range from unusual bowel habits to family history. Dr. Rizk emphasized the importance of colonoscopy screenings and encouraged listeners to take advantage of early prevention.

Listen to Medical Frontiers every Monday from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. on NewsRadio 1020 KDKA.