Month: January 2025

Concrete Contractors

The Benefits of Concrete Leveling

Adele Mayer

Uneven concrete surfaces are not only unsightly, but they can also pose safety hazards. Concrete leveling is a repair process that lifts sunken slabs back into place. It is faster, less invasive, and more cost-effective than replacement.

Concrete Leveling

In this article, we will explore what concrete leveling is, different methods, and when it’s an appropriate repair for your home or business. Contact Concrete Leveling Dallas for professional help.

Concrete leveling is a cost-effective repair solution that lifts sunken concrete slabs. It is typically cheaper than replacing sunken concrete, and it can be performed in a shorter time frame. It also prevents further damage to the surrounding surface, reducing safety risks on your property. However, the price of concrete leveling varies depending on the method used and the severity of the damage. It is best to consult a professional contractor for guidance before selecting a concrete leveling solution that fits your needs and budget.

The process of concrete leveling involves drilling small holes into sunken concrete, then injecting a slurry mixture that raises and levels the concrete. This solution can be applied to a wide range of surfaces, including patios, driveways, and porches. In addition, it can be matched to existing concrete to create a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result.

There are two main methods for concrete leveling: mudjacking and polyleveling. Both have their pros and cons, so it’s important to evaluate the damage and your budget before deciding which one is right for you. If you’re unsure which option is best, seek advice from a professional contractor to get a full assessment of the problem and its causes.

It’s important to choose a quality contractor for your concrete leveling project. While it may be tempting to save money by choosing the cheapest quote, this could lead to poor results and costly repairs in the future. Instead, take the time to compare quotes from multiple contractors and check their qualifications, experience, and customer satisfaction. Additionally, make sure to inquire about the warranty they offer.

Investing in professional concrete leveling services ensures you’ll get the most accurate and durable repairs possible. It’s also a good idea to select environmentally-friendly materials, which minimizes environmental impact and supports sustainability efforts in your community. Finally, it’s a good idea to choose local contractors to reduce transportation costs and fuel consumption.

It’s crucial to catch concrete problems early, especially if they’re caused by settlement. Leveling these areas quickly with PolyRenewal will not only help avoid major issues in the future, but it’ll also be less expensive than a complete replacement.

Time

Several factors can affect the time needed to complete a concrete leveling repair. These factors include the number of slabs needing to be lifted, the accessibility of the area, and whether any other areas need to be repaired at the same time. Additionally, if the job is complex or requires the use of specialized tools, it will take longer to finish the work.

Sagging concrete is unsightly and can pose a safety hazard for pedestrians and vehicles. The best way to address it is with concrete leveling, which involves injecting a special material beneath the slab to raise it back up. This process is faster and less expensive than replacing the concrete, and it will also help prevent future settling.

The first step in concrete leveling is to identify the low areas of the slabs that need to be raised. This can be done by eye if the slab is clearly visible, or by using a level to determine how far the slab has sunken. Once the slabs are identified, holes must be drilled into them to install a delivery port for the lifting materials.

Two common ways to lift concrete slabs are mudjacking and polyjacking. Mudjacking uses a mixture of cement, water, and soil to “jack” up the sunken slab from below. While this method is quick, it can be difficult to perform in winter when the mud may freeze inside the pump and cause it to fail.

Another option is foam injection concrete leveling, which uses expanding polyurethane to lift the concrete. This method is faster than mudjacking and doesn’t require the use of heavy machinery. It’s also less expensive than replacing the concrete, making it a good option for homeowners and businesses that want to avoid the hassle of tearing out existing concrete.

Once the concrete is leveled, it’s important to seal it to protect against further deterioration. A quality sealant will act as a barrier between the surface and climate elements, such as rain and snow, that can damage it. The sealant will also reduce the risk of frost heaving, which occurs when moisture expands under the concrete and pushes it upward.

Safety

Concrete is used almost everywhere, and it’s one of the strongest, most durable building materials available. However, it’s not invincible, and concrete slabs can sink or become uneven for a variety of reasons. The good news is that concrete leveling can correct the problem and restore a safe and sturdy surface.

Uneven concrete is more than just unsightly; it can also be a safety hazard. It can cause people to trip and fall, resulting in injury. Moreover, it can cause damage to vehicles or structures. Regular inspections of sunken concrete surfaces can help prevent severe damage and costly repairs.

When hiring a professional for concrete leveling, look for one with a proven track record and years of experience. They should also offer a free, no-obligation inspection and repair estimate. A reputable concrete leveling specialist should also ensure transparency about the process and expected outcomes.

Before the concrete leveling process begins, it’s important to prepare the area for work. This includes removing debris, cleaning the surface thoroughly, and making sure it’s dry. This will ensure that the leveling compounds can bond with the concrete and produce a solid result.

In addition, it’s important to protect the leveling compound from excessive moisture and temperature fluctuations. These conditions can cause the compound to crack or shift, affecting the final outcome. In order to protect the concrete, it’s recommended to use curing blankets and other protective measures. It’s also crucial to test the area for proper curing before putting weight on it.

There are a number of methods for concrete leveling, including mudjacking and polyurethane foam injection. Mudjacking involves pumping a slurry mixture of cement, sand, and clay beneath the damaged concrete to lift it. Polyurethane foam injection is a more modern approach that uses smaller holes to inject foam that expands under the concrete, lifting it back to a safe and stable position. It’s faster than mudjacking, and it produces a more lasting result. It also requires less labor and equipment. It’s a good option for homeowners who want a quick and affordable solution to their sunken concrete.

Warranty

Concrete is known for its durability, but even the most rugged surfaces can succumb to damage and wear. Uneven or sunken concrete can detract from the beauty of your home and create tripping hazards for pedestrians. Fortunately, concrete leveling offers an effective and cost-efficient solution to these issues. The process involves injecting a special material beneath the concrete to raise and stabilize it. It can be used to repair sidewalks, patios, driveways, porches, pool decks, and more.

There are two main concrete leveling methods: mudjacking and polyurethane concrete lifting foam, or “Polyjacking.” Both processes involve drilling holes into the sunken concrete and then pumping a concrete-leveling compound into those holes. The polyurethane lifts the concrete back into place, creating a level surface that’s both safe and attractive. Mudjacking is a more traditional method that uses a mixture of water, soil, and cement to jack the concrete up from underneath. This method is less expensive than replacing the entire concrete slab, but it may not provide as good of a result.

A quality concrete leveling contractor will take the time to thoroughly inspect your sunken concrete and assess its condition. They will then recommend the best repair option for your needs. Often, the best choice is to repair the sunken concrete with polyurethane leveling foam. This process offers a more durable repair than mudjacking and can be completed in just two hours.

In addition to repairing the sunken concrete, the polyurethane also helps to stabilize and strengthen the surrounding soil. This can help prevent future sinking of the concrete and extend the life of the concrete. Finally, the polyurethane is much lighter than mud, which means it will not add to the load on the soil below the slab.

When choosing a concrete leveling company, be sure to read the terms of their warranty carefully. If you see that the warranty is limited to labor and materials, this is a red flag. It’s important to choose a concrete leveling company with a long history of customer satisfaction and a commitment to honoring their warranties.

Concrete Contractor

The Process of Asphalt Paving

Tanya Everett

Asphalt is a versatile material that can be used for a variety of pavement projects. Its flexibility allows it to flex with temperature fluctuations, making it an excellent choice for regions with unpredictable weather.

Smooth roads reduce vehicle wear and tear, saving maintenance costs. They also extend the lifespan of a road or driveway by up to 25%. Contact Asphalt Paving Charleston now!

The asphalt paving process involves many steps that must be done properly to ensure the surface can withstand vehicular traffic and weather conditions. To start with, any existing materials like pavers, concrete, or old asphalt must be removed and the area graded to give it a sloping surface that directs water away from the new pavement. This step helps prevent future issues like rutting, cracking, or potholes by managing moisture effectively.

Once the sub base has been laid and any soft spots have been corrected, it’s time for the binder and surfacing layer. The binder is a mixture of coarse aggregate and oil that makes the asphalt strong. This is created in an asphalt plant and kept at a hot temperature so it can be transported to the construction site when needed.

Once at the construction site, the asphalt mix is spread evenly over the prepared sub base with specialized paving equipment. This is then compacted with heavy rollers to improve density and eliminate voids. This is an essential step because improper compaction can lead to structural problems like rutting and longitudinal and transverse cracking. It can also cause a bumpy or uneven finish that’s unsafe for pedestrians and vehicles. In addition, proper compaction can help reduce future maintenance costs by minimizing damage caused by weather and traffic conditions. This is known as long-term durability.

Materials

Asphalt is made from a careful combination of aggregate, binder and filler. The mix design is determined by traffic volume, climate and the purpose of the pavement. The mixture is created in an asphalt plant to ensure quality and consistency.

Aggregate materials like sand and crushed stone are combined with additives and liquid asphalt (also called bitumen) to form the asphalt concrete that makes up your road, driveway or parking lot. The different ingredients are mixed in a specific ratio to create the unique characteristics needed for each type of construction project.

There are three types of asphalt: hot mix, warm mix and cold mix. Hot mix asphalt is poured and spread at temperatures over 300 degrees Fahrenheit, and can be classified as either coarse-graded or fine-graded dense mixes. It is the most common and durable of the asphalt types, and it is used to pave high-traffic roadways, interstates and highways.

Warm mix asphalt (WMA) is produced and applied at lower temperatures than HMA, allowing for a more energy-efficient production process. WMA is not as durable as HMA, but it still provides a strong and long-lasting surface for roadways, parking lots and driveways. Cold mix asphalt can be used in less-trafficked roads and is also a good choice for pothole repairs. One concern about using cold mix is that it contains re-refined engine oil bottoms (REOB), which can contain phosphorous.

Preparation

Before any asphalt can be laid, the ground needs to be prepared. This typically includes clearing the area and removing any existing materials, such as concrete or dirt. Depending on the situation, grading may also be necessary to shape the surface of the new pavement and ensure proper drainage (another important element of quality asphalt surfaces).

Once the sub-base layer is in place, the binder layer can be added. The asphalt mixture is a carefully crafted combination of small aggregate stone, sand, and oil. It’s this mixture that gives asphalt its signature jet black shine and strength. It’s created in an asphalt plant and poured over the base, saturating and bonding with the coarse aggregate.

The final layer is the surface asphalt itself. This is the material that people are most familiar with as it’s used on roadways and parking lots. It’s made by heating hard grade blown bitumen to the point of liquefaction and mixing in aggregates and filler. In order to maintain the flexibility of your asphalt surface, it’s important that this mix is designed with a high critical specification temperature for stiffness (or m-value).

Once the surface asphalt is applied and compacted, it will need time to cure. This process can take a few days, during which traffic must be kept off of the newly paved surface. Once cured, any markings or signage can be added (lane lines, crosswalks, etc.).

Spreading

Asphalt paving requires skilled workers and specialized equipment to achieve an even and long-lasting surface. One crucial step is applying a layer of gravel as a base. This provides stability and helps with drainage. It also allows the asphalt to “lock” into place, preventing it from lifting or moving later on.

After the gravel layer is applied, the asphalt mix is spread evenly over the surface using an asphalt paver. The paver is comprised of a tractor unit that provides mobility and powers the entire machine, as well as a screed that spreads the asphalt in a mat form. It is attached to the tractor unit at tow points on each side that act as a hinge.

The paver has a conveyor system that moves the hot asphalt mix from the hopper to the screed. A hydraulically folding hopper wing located on each side can also be opened to increase hopper capacity and allow the asphalt to be dumped directly from the truck into the hopper.

The asphalt is then compacted using a roller. This step helps to eliminate air pockets, which may reduce the life of the finished surface. It also helps to ensure that the mat is densely packed and ready for traffic. An additional step may be to apply a sealant or surface treatment. This protects the asphalt from weather and UV damage, and enhances its appearance. Finally, line striping and markings are added to facilitate traffic flow and safety.

Compaction

Compaction is the process of removing air from the asphalt mix and making it dense. This helps to make the pavement more resistant to stress and extends its durability. This is a critical step in the construction process that requires expert attention to detail.

A variety of factors impact the speed at which the asphalt mix cools and thus the time available to compact it. The two most important factors are the temperature of the mix as it passes out from under the screed of the paver and the thickness of the layer. The ambient air temperature and the ground temperature are also significant factors. Wind velocity can also have an effect on the rate of cooling.

In general, it’s a good idea to compact the material as quickly as possible, since it is easier to do so while the mix is still hot. This will help to prevent a condition known as raveling. Insufficient compaction of HMA leads to a weakened and weak structure that can only be corrected by removal and replacement.

Proper compaction is also important because it reduces the amount of air in the pavement, which can cause damage to the underlying base layers. This is another reason why it’s so important to work with experienced paving contractors who have a strong commitment to quality. Their knowledge and experience help ensure a high-quality finished product that will provide years of service.

Finishing

Asphalt is an amazing material that connects us all through the roads and paved surfaces around us. It’s important to understand the process behind how asphalt is made so we can better appreciate the work that goes into creating a smooth and durable surface that can withstand heavy traffis and weather sonditions. Asphalt paving is a complex and intricate prosess that requires presision, expertise, and specialized equipment to sreate a high-quality finished product.

Once the sub-grade has been graded to construction plan specifications, any soft areas must be identified and repaired. If left untreated, these soft areas can cause cracking and other pavement distresses. Additionally, any large elevation discrepancies should be corrected before paving begins by adding fill or compaction.

The next step in the paving process is laying down a layer of gravel. This layer provides stability to the new pavement and aids in drainage. It’s important that this layer is properly compacted using heavy machinery to prevent future problems like shifting and cracking.

After the gravel base is laid, a thicker layer of asphalt is applied. This layer is known as the binder course and is installed on top of the runner-crush stone base. This is the “weight-bearing” layer of asphalt and uses larger aggregate pieces than the surface course.

The final layer of the paving process is the surface course, also known as the finish. This is the top layer of the asphalt and is a combination of smaller aggregate mixed with sand and oil. This helps to give the finished asphalt a shiny, smooth appearance. The finishing stage also includes applying any pavement markings or signs to help ensure safety and functionality of the paved surface.

Building Services

Creating the Perfect Outdoor Space with Patio Contractors

Kyla Bray

Patio Contractors Greensboro NC play a pivotal role in transforming outdoor spaces into beautiful and functional living areas. Their expertise is in designing, constructing, and maintaining patios that cater to the needs of homeowners who seek to enhance their outdoor experiences.

Patio Contractors

Whether a homeowner desires a quiet retreat, a space for entertaining guests, or an area for dining outdoors, patio contractors are the professionals who bring these ideas to life. Their work involves understanding both the aesthetic preferences and the practical requirements of a client’s outdoor space, ensuring that every project is tailored to meet specific desires while considering functionality and longevity.

The work of patio contractors goes beyond simply laying down some paving stones or building a deck. They have a deep understanding of various materials that are ideal for different types of outdoor spaces. From natural stone to brick, wood, and concrete, patio contractors can guide clients in choosing the right materials that complement the architecture of the home and the surrounding environment. Materials need to be durable and able to withstand weather conditions, so contractors often advise on the best types of materials for the local climate. A patio contractor’s knowledge ensures that the chosen materials not only enhance the beauty of the outdoor space but also hold up to the wear and tear of daily use, minimizing the need for costly repairs down the road.

When a homeowner first considers installing or renovating a patio, they may have a general idea of what they want but may not know the best way to achieve that vision. Patio contractors step in to offer their expertise, helping to refine ideas and guide clients through the design process. Contractors typically meet with clients to understand their goals, preferences, and budget. They assess the space to determine its potential and limitations, taking into account factors like terrain, sunlight, drainage, and access to the home. Once the contractor has a solid understanding of the client’s vision, they will often create a detailed plan or blueprint of the patio that includes dimensions, materials, and layout. This plan serves as a roadmap for the construction phase and helps clients visualize the end result before any work begins.

One of the primary benefits of hiring a patio contractor is their ability to handle all aspects of the project, from design to completion. They can manage the entire process, including obtaining necessary permits, coordinating with subcontractors, and ensuring that the project stays on schedule and within budget. Contractors have established relationships with suppliers and subcontractors, which allows them to source materials at competitive prices and bring in skilled professionals, such as landscapers, electricians, or masons, when needed. This network of professionals ensures that every detail of the patio construction is handled by experts in their respective fields, resulting in a high-quality final product.

Construction itself is a complex process that requires precise planning and execution. Patio contractors are adept at managing the various steps involved, including preparing the ground, installing a foundation, laying the patio material, and finishing touches like landscaping or outdoor lighting. Proper ground preparation is crucial to ensure that the patio remains level and stable over time. Contractors will typically remove any debris, level the soil, and may add a gravel base or other materials to ensure proper drainage. Without proper drainage, patios can experience pooling water, which can cause damage to the materials over time or create an unappealing surface. Patio contractors are trained to address these issues and will ensure that the patio’s design accounts for adequate water flow.

The choice of materials for the patio is often one of the most important decisions a homeowner will make. Patio contractors offer valuable insights into the advantages and disadvantages of various materials based on factors like cost, durability, maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. For example, natural stone, such as flagstone or slate, can provide a rustic, timeless look but requires more maintenance to keep it clean and free from moss or weeds. On the other hand, concrete or pavers may offer a more cost-effective and low-maintenance option, with a wide range of colors and patterns to choose from. Wood is also a popular material for patio construction, offering a warm, natural appearance but requiring regular sealing and care to protect against the elements. The contractor’s role is to ensure that the material chosen is the best fit for the homeowner’s needs and preferences, as well as the specific conditions of the space.

Beyond the materials themselves, patio contractors also bring an eye for design, ensuring that the patio fits seamlessly into the overall landscape of the home. Whether the goal is to create a cozy, intimate space or an expansive area for large gatherings, contractors can offer creative solutions to maximize the use of space. This might involve designing features like built-in seating, outdoor kitchens, fire pits, or pergolas, which not only enhance the function of the patio but also add to its aesthetic appeal. The design process involves considering how the patio will be used and how it will interact with the rest of the property, ensuring that the end result is both visually appealing and practical.

In addition to construction, patio contractors also provide valuable maintenance and repair services to ensure that patios remain in excellent condition over time. Even with high-quality materials, outdoor spaces are exposed to the elements, which can lead to wear and tear. Over time, patios may develop cracks, shifts in the foundation, or stains that detract from their appearance. Patio contractors can offer routine maintenance services, such as cleaning, resealing, and minor repairs, to keep the patio looking its best. In some cases, a contractor may recommend more extensive repairs or upgrades, such as replacing worn materials or addressing drainage issues that have developed over time.

The benefits of hiring a professional patio contractor extend beyond the immediate project. A well-designed and expertly constructed patio can significantly increase the value of a home, making it an appealing feature for potential buyers. Outdoor living spaces are increasingly in demand, as more homeowners look to maximize the use of their properties. A high-quality patio not only improves the homeowner’s enjoyment of their space but also adds to the overall curb appeal of the property. For those considering selling their home in the future, a professionally designed patio can make a significant difference in the marketability and value of the home.

For homeowners looking to make the most of their outdoor space, working with a patio contractor is an investment that can provide long-term benefits. These professionals have the experience and skills needed to ensure that every project is completed to the highest standards, creating a patio that is both beautiful and functional. Whether it’s creating a space for relaxation, hosting guests, or simply enhancing the property’s appearance, a patio contractor can help bring a homeowner’s vision to life while ensuring that the project is completed efficiently and to the highest standards of quality. A well-constructed patio can transform a simple backyard into a place of enjoyment, relaxation, and beauty, making it a worthwhile investment for any homeowner.

Surgeon

Colorectal Surgeon

Tanya Everett

Colorectal Surgeon Phoenix study your colon, rectum and anus in-depth, making them uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat conditions that affect the lower digestive tract. They use both nonsurgical and surgical methods.

During laparoscopic surgery, your surgeon makes small incisions. This method results in less pain and recovery time. Your surgeon may also perform surgery using a robotic system.

If you have a condition that affects the colon and rectum, your primary care doctor or gastroenterologist may refer you to a colorectal surgeon. Colorectal surgery experts work closely with your primary providers to coordinate surgical care that aligns with your overall health and treatment goals.

A surgeon trained in colon and rectal surgery is specially trained to treat conditions related to the lower digestive tract, including the colon, rectum, anus and pelvic floor. These include hemorrhoids, fissures and abscesses. The surgeon also treats diseases of the colon and rectum, such as diverticulitis, cancer, rectal polyps and inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis).

Your physician will use tools such as a colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy to examine these areas, and he or she will remove tissue samples for testing. A biopsy can help determine whether a tumor or abnormal cell is cancerous, and what type of cancer it is. Other tests can provide additional information about your condition and your prognosis, such as how quickly the cells are growing.

In addition to examining your gastrointestinal tract, the surgeon can perform other surgical procedures on these organs. He or she may use a laparoscopic or robotic technique to perform these procedures. These techniques are minimally invasive, allowing you to return home soon after surgery.

Colon and rectal surgery is a medical specialty, and your physician should be board certified. This certification requires years of education, residency and training. Your physician must also pass a rigorous exam.

A colorectal surgeon can remove the polyps and tumors that cause colon cancer. Sometimes, these surgeons can also treat the cancer with medicine. They can also treat other conditions with medication, such as inflammatory bowel disease and hemorrhoids. A colorectal surgeon can also treat other problems with the colon, rectum and anus, such as a hernia or enterocutaneous fistula, which are irregular connections between your colon or stomach and skin. They can even treat a condition called familial adenomatous polyposis, which causes your colon to grow hundreds or thousands of small growths that can lead to cancer.

Treatment

Colorectal surgeons treat conditions of the colon, rectum and perianal area (the area around the anus). Some of these are benign—such as polyps or diverticula—and others may be malignant—such as rectal cancer. The surgeon can remove these using surgery. They can also use minimally invasive techniques to treat some of these conditions.

During laparoscopic surgery, the surgeon makes small incisions in the abdomen instead of one long cut. Then they insert a long, flexible tool with a camera (a colonoscope) into the rectum to see the area inside. With this tool, they can remove polyps or a tumor from the rectum or colon without cutting into the abdominal wall. They can also use it to remove a diverticulosis sac or anal fistula. This can help patients avoid a colon resection.

They can also use a technique called transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) to remove a rectal tumor or polyps that are too high up in the colon to be removed with other surgical approaches. Mass General is among the few hospitals in the country offering this advanced procedure.

In some cases, the bowel may take longer than usual to “wake up” and start working again after colon surgery. This might be caused by the surgery itself or because of the anesthesia. If you are having trouble with this, talk to your doctor. They may want to do more tests to make sure that the problem is not more serious. They might then recommend a different type of treatment or an operation to put the bowel back together.

If your doctor decides that a section of the colon needs to be removed, they can remove it and nearby lymph nodes. They might also need to create an opening in the abdomen, which is called a stoma, so that waste can go into a collection bag. They might need to do this temporarily or permanently.

Some people who have had a large amount of colon or rectal cancer might need to have the entire colon removed. This is called a colectomy or colostomy. In these cases, they might also need to remove some or all of the small intestines and nearby lymph nodes.

Surgery

If your primary care physician diagnoses you with a condition of the colon, rectum or anus, your colorectal surgeon will perform surgery to treat it. The surgical procedure can range from minor to complex, depending on your condition. In most cases, your doctor will use a local anesthetic during the procedure, so you won’t feel much pain or discomfort. If the procedure requires sedation or general anesthesia, it’s a good idea to have someone drive you home afterward.

Some surgical procedures are done in the office with patients awake, including colonoscopies and some hemorrhoidectomy procedures. Other surgeries require anesthesia and a longer stay in the hospital. You can expect the doctor to explain what will happen during the procedure and answer any questions you have.

Polypectomy: Surgeons remove colon or rectal polyps by inserting a long, thin tool with a camera (colonoscope) into the rectum and passing a wire loop through it to snip off a tumor. They may also remove small clumps of cells known as inflammatory polyps. A less common procedure is a colon resection, in which the surgeon removes a portion of the colon to reduce inflammation caused by an intestinal obstruction.

Colon cancer: Sometimes, colorectal surgeons will remove the entire colon in a procedure called a colectomy. This is used to treat advanced colon cancer, severe inflammatory bowel disease and other conditions that affect the colon. In laparoscopic colectomy, the surgeon makes a series of small incisions instead of one long incision, which may result in less pain and a faster recovery.

Hemorrhoidectomy: In this procedure, the surgeon uses a tool with a needle to remove enlarged blood vessels from the anus and rectum. It’s one of the most effective ways to treat hemorrhoids over the long term.

Other conditions that may need surgery include rectal prolapse, in which the rectum falls down into the anus, and anal fistula, which is a painful infection in the anus or area surrounding the anus. Novant Health colorectal specialists treat these conditions with a variety of surgical techniques. Your surgeon will recommend specific post-surgical care guidelines, including diet and medication. You’ll also need to attend follow-up appointments as recommended.

Recovery

Most people aren’t excited about the prospect of surgery, but in some cases it is necessary. Educating yourself about your procedure and talking with your surgeon can make the process less stressful.

Colorectal surgeons perform a wide variety of surgical procedures to treat conditions affecting the colon and rectum, including polyps, diverticulitis, rectal cancer and more. Most of these surgeries can be performed using minimally invasive techniques, meaning the surgeon makes small cuts and uses thin long surgical instruments and a laparoscope (a telescope with a camera lens) to view the affected area and guide the surgery.

This allows the surgeon to avoid cutting through and damaging important blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the colon. It also reduces the amount of time you need to spend in the hospital. Often, patients are discharged within two to four days of their operation.

During colorectal surgery, you’ll be under general anesthesia. The surgeon will talk to you before the surgery and explain what’s going to happen. You’ll probably be in the operating room for about 30 minutes to an hour. You’ll be taken to the recovery room after the surgery. Depending on your situation, you might stay in the hospital for up to six days.

A small percentage of people have complications after colorectal surgery. These include pain and discomfort that is usually controlled with medicine, changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation, and infection. If you develop a problem with your colon during recovery, it’s important to follow up with your doctor right away.

You’ll also need to follow postoperative care instructions for a speedy recovery. These can include following a liquid diet and restricting certain activities that put strain on the abdomen. You may need to wear a drain for a short period after your surgery to remove excess fluids from your belly.

A major goal of our Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) program is to get you back to your normal life as quickly and comfortably as possible. ERAS is now a standard of care at all Mass General Brigham hospitals and includes a number of steps before, during and after your surgery.