Colorectal service

Colorectal cancer

We have a well-established ‘target referral’ system and fast-track investigations for the management of all suspected colorectal cancer. Patients are investigated using the latest high-resolution imaging techniques, including CT, MRI and PET-CT, where applicable. We provide patients with a liaision contact early in the management pathway so there is always a point of contact. Each case is discussed in a multidisciplinary team meeting at the Macmillan Cancer Centre to ensure optimal decision making.

We offer minimal access or keyhole surgery for the majority of patients requiring operation for their cancer. This includes laparoscopy and transanal technique. We are supported by a strong oncology team who will discuss treatment options with patients following surgery.

The service is involved in a number of surgical and oncological trials, and is supported by a world-renowned academic unit at University College London.

Inflammatory bowel disease

Allied to the department of gastroenterology, we offer a specialist inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) service. We provide multidisciplinary management of patients from their initial presentation of Crohn’s or colitis, through to complex surgery such as ileoanal pouch. In addition, we offer a national referral service for the management of complex problems such as nutritional support, intestinal failure and enterocutaneous fistula.

Proctology

We offer rapid assessment of all routine proctological problems.

Complex pelvic surgery and pelvic floor dysfunction

Disorders of the pelvic floor are complex and require a multidisciplinary approach. We provide a collaborative service between the colorectal department, the department of GI physiology, and with specialists within the UCLH gynaecology service for the diagnosis and treatment of these complex problems.

Well-man clinic

This service was initially developed to support men with anorectal disease – particularly HIV-positive patients, where serious complications can present. Through the development of this service, the department has also employed new screening and therapeutic techniques (in collaboration with the department of laser therapy) for anal intra-epithelial neoplasia (AIN).

Minimally-invasive colorectal surgery

We offer laparoscopic and transanal minimally-invasive colorectal surgery, using state-of-the-art facilities to treat inflammatory bowel disease, diverticular disease, colorectal cancer and other benign pelvic floor disorders. A focus of the unit is to establish a specialist centre for the training and teaching of advanced laparoscopic colorectal surgery, and welcome referrals related to this area of surgery.

Support for patients is provided by the consultants' team and a clinical nurse specialist throughout their treatment programme.

Patient aftercare will be shared between the hospital and the patient's GP. Regular follow-up will be arranged prior to discharge.

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Upon diagnosis of a colorectal cancer, you will have access to a Colorectal Cancer clinical nurse specialist (CNS) or a colorectal cancer support worker (CSW). Both CNS and CSW work closely with your team and can be contacted outside of your clinic appointments. Additionally, the CNS service can provide support with many aspects of living with colorectal cancer such as physical, emotional, social and financial needs. 

Your CNS may use a Holistic Needs Assessment (HNA). This is a process designed to enable you to share information with your team which is important to the treatment and care you receive. You do not have to have a HNA but many people find it opens up discussions with their team about their concerns which may not be otherwise raised. If you feel a HNA would be helpful, please talk to your CNS. 

Throughout your pathway the CNS will be a single point of contact for you and your family should you have questions about your diagnosis, issues with your condition or queries about your medication. They will also be able to provide you with information (written and verbal) about your diagnosis and treatment. They will also be able to offer you advice and support or direct you to other places where you can also get support.  

Colorectal CNS and CSW email: uclh.colorectalcancercns@nhs.net 

If you have an urgent but not life-threatening problem, you should call NHS 111 before attending the hospital. You will then be directed to the most suitable location for your care in the first instance, as A&E is not always the most appropriate option.

If your problem is life-threatening, you should still dial 999 and go straight to your nearest A&E.