Colorectal Surgery Department - Dignity Health St. Joseph's Westgate Medical Center - Glendale

Outpatient surgery, sometimes called same-day surgery or ambulatory surgery, is a surgical procedure that lets you go home the same day as your operation. Many outpatient surgeries use minimally-invasive techniques, which often lead to a faster recovery and fewer complications. At St. Joseph’s Westgate’s Colorectal Surgery Department in Glendale, your care team will monitor you closely before, during and after the procedure to ensure your safety and comfort.

Our colorectal surgery team performs a wide range of procedures that do not require an overnight hospital stay. These include colorectal surgery, colonoscopies, colorectal robotic-assisted surgery and hernia repair. Advances in surgical technology allow many treatments that once required hospitalization to now be safely performed in an outpatient setting. Your surgeon will recommend outpatient surgery if it is the safest and most appropriate option for your condition.

We treat colon and rectal conditions, including colon cancer, hemorrhoids, hernias, anal fissure, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis and bowel incontinence. Our team will create a treatment plan tailored to your needs and support you from diagnosis through treatment and recovery.

Recovery time after outpatient surgery varies depending on the procedure and your overall health. Many people are able to return home a few hours after surgery and resume light activities within a few days. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions for pain management, wound care and activity levels to support a safe recovery.

A gastroenterology doctor specializes in caring for the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, or digestive system. This includes the stomach, esophagus, large and small intestines, liver and more. They diagnose and treat concerns such as acid reflux, ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and liver disease. Gastroenterologists work closely with Colorectal Surgeons to help manage the patients surgical care needs.

Learn more about gastroenterology

You can use our Find a Doctor search tool to find a gastroenterologist near you, see their availability and schedule an appointment.

Your gastroenterologist will provide detailed instructions on how to prepare for your colonoscopy. For a clear view during the procedure, your colon must be completely empty. Typically, you will be asked to follow a liquid-only diet for 24 hours before your procedure. You will also drink a laxative solution prescribed by your doctor to help clear the bowels.

A referral is generally required to see a gastroenterologist. Please check with your insurance plan and primary care provider to confirm if a referral is necessary for your specific situation.

We accept most major insurance plans. To ensure a smooth visit, we encourage you to confirm your insurance coverage, eligibility, and benefits directly with your insurance company beforehand. For any questions regarding the plans we accept, please contact our office at (623) 208-5740.