Minor office procedures.

Office procedures are an important part of colon and rectal surgery. Patients often present with urgent conditions that can be handled quickly and easily in the office setting. On the other hand, the surgeon must make an accurate assessment regarding which situations are appropriate to manage in the office and which are not. To avoid complications, the office must be equipped with staff familiar with the procedures and instruments/supplies to perform the procedure. The surgeon must also establish a rapport with patients to facilitate completion of each procedure with minimal patient, surgeon, and staff anxiety. With thoughtful preparation one can accomplish many procedures in the office effectively and safely.