Our colorectal surgery team provides specialist care across two main sites – the Leicester General Hospital (LGH) and the Leicester Royal Infirmary (LRI). Outpatient services, day case surgery, and endoscopy are delivered at both LGH and LRI, with additional procedures and clinics held at Glenfield Hospital and selected community hospitals.
Conditions we treat
Our experienced team treats the full range of colorectal conditions, including:
- Bowel conditions: Bowel cancer (colon and rectal), bowel polyps, prolapse, diverticular disease, and inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease).
- Anal conditions: Haemorrhoids (piles), fistulas, skin tags, warts, pruritus ani (itching), and fibroepithelial polyps.
- Functional bowel disorders: Including anal incontinence and pelvic floor dysfunction.
Treatments and procedures
We offer a wide range of surgical and non-surgical treatments:
- Surgical options: Open and laparoscopic (minimally invasive/keyhole) bowel surgery, including rectal surgery.
- Advanced techniques: Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery (TEMS) for rectal tumours, and laparoscopic or open hernia repairs.
- Endoscopy services: Diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for bowel polyps and other conditions.
Diagnostic tests explained
- Proctoscopy: A brief exam of the rectum and anus using a small scope.
- Rigid Sigmoidoscopy: A short test that uses a tube and air inflation to examine the rectum.
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy/Colonoscopy: In-depth examinations of the large bowel using a flexible, illuminated scope, often with sedation.
- CT Scan / MRI Scan: Imaging of the abdomen and chest to assist diagnosis and treatment planning.
Our colorectal team
Patients may be seen by a specialist colorectal nurse who offers information, emotional support, and coordination throughout the care journey. For patients diagnosed with cancer, a named ‘key worker’ nurse will be available as your main point of contact.
Stoma Care and Support
If your treatment involves a stoma, we aim to support you before, during, and after your hospital stay:
- Before your operation: We’ll meet you to explain what having a stoma involves. You’re welcome to bring a family member or carer, and we can also arrange for you to meet someone with lived experience.
- In hospital: Our stoma nurses work alongside your ward team to help you become confident in managing your stoma.
- After discharge: We’ll visit you at home within 10 days and invite you to a local stoma clinic. We also liaise with your GP and district nurse to ensure continuity of care.
- Ongoing support: You’ll be offered follow-up appointments, and if your stoma is permanent, we recommend a yearly check-up through our community stoma care team.