How Our Colorectal Surgeons Work with Gastroenterologists

Posted on October 15th, 2026

Gastroenterologists collaborate with other doctors to improve your digestive health. Digestive health involves several types of specialists, and knowing who does what can make navigating your care much easier. Gastroenterologists and colorectal surgeons have different areas of expertise, but their roles often complement one another when managing conditions involving the colon and rectum.  At Piedmont Colorectal Associates in Atlanta, GA, our talented colorectal surgeons provide specialized evaluation and surgical treatment for a broad range of colorectal conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease, diverticular disease, and colorectal cancer.

What Does a Gastroenterologist Do?

Gastroenterologists specialize in diagnosing and medically managing diseases throughout the digestive system, including conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas. They frequently provide ongoing care for chronic gastrointestinal conditions such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Gastroenterologists also perform procedures such as upper endoscopy and colonoscopy. During a colonoscopy, they can identify abnormalities, take biopsies, and remove many polyps. If testing reveals a condition that may require surgical treatment, a colorectal surgeon may become involved in the next stage of care.

When Does a Colorectal Surgeon Become Involved?

Colorectal surgeons receive specialized surgical training focused on diseases of the colon, rectum, and anus. Surgery may be considered when medical management is no longer sufficient, when a structural problem requires correction, or when conditions such as colorectal cancer, complicated diverticulitis, or inflammatory bowel disease require an operation. Our colorectal surgeons also treat anorectal conditions, including hemorrhoids, fissures, fistulas, abscesses, and fecal incontinence. Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may range from an office-based procedure to minimally invasive or robotic surgery.

How Can the Two Specialties Complement Each Other?

For conditions such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, a gastroenterologist may oversee medications and ongoing disease management while a colorectal surgeon addresses complications that could benefit from surgery. Similarly, a gastroenterologist may identify colorectal cancer or a concerning polyp during colonoscopy and refer the patient for surgical evaluation. Having expertise from both specialties can help ensure that different aspects of a complex digestive condition are appropriately addressed. The goal is not simply to determine whether surgery is necessary, but to identify the treatment approach that best fits your diagnosis and circumstances.

Specialized Colorectal Care When You Need It

Being referred to a colorectal surgeon does not automatically mean you need surgery. It means you can receive a specialized assessment of your colon, rectal, or anorectal condition and understand the full range of available options. At Piedmont Colorectal Associates, our experienced team provides comprehensive colorectal care with an emphasis on privacy, compassion, and individualized treatment. If your gastroenterologist recommended a colorectal surgical evaluation, or you need specialized care for a colon or rectal condition in Atlanta, call (404) 351-7900 to schedule an appointment.
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