Leaders in colorectal care, research and surgical training
The Section of Colon and Rectal Surgery at WashU Medicine is dedicated to providing excellent patient care, performing groundbreaking research and educating the next generation of colorectal surgeons. Established in 1985 by renowned colorectal surgeon Ira Kodner, MD, the section continues to be a leader in academic surgery.
The section’s clinical practice is focused on comprehensive, compassionate care for benign and malignant diseases of the colon, rectum, and anus. We work closely with gastroenterologists, oncologists, and specialists from other disciplines to deliver the highest quality of care. Our surgeons have experience with a high volume of complex cases, many of which are performed through minimally invasive approaches including laparoscopic and robotic surgery. Highlights of our service include:
- Young onset colorectal cancer program
- Non-operative management for rectal cancer
- Comprehensive Cancer Center designation and “Exceptional” rating from National Cancer Institute – Siteman Cancer Center
Our research aims to translate basic science findings into advances in clinical care. We participate in numerous clinical trials, and we are national leaders in research investigating the impact of total neoadjuvant therapy on disease-free survival of patients with locally advanced rectal cancer.
In addition to its rotations for general surgery residents, the section offers a one-year fellowship in colorectal surgery that offers in-depth exposure to all aspects of colorectal disease and surgery.
High clinical volume
Advanced training
Innovative research
Section chief
Matthew G. Mutch, MD
Chief, Section of Colon and Rectal Surgery
Solon and Bettie Gershman Professor of Surgery
Division of General Surgery
- Phone: 314-454-7177
- Fax: 888-425-7946
Patient care
Colon and rectal surgeons at WashU Medicine provide expert care in a compassionate environment. Our colorectal surgeons use the latest advances to identify and treat diseases of the colon, rectum and anus. We specialize in minimally invasive treatment options that can reduce recovery times and get people back to living their lives.
Education
We train general surgery residents rotating on our service and offer an advanced one-year colorectal surgery fellowship. Established in 1980, our fellowship is among the longest-standing and most sought-after academic colon and rectal surgery fellowships in the nation. The fellowship is board-certified for three positions each year. Additionally, we offer a research fellowship for candidates interested in studies related to colorectal disease.
Learn more: Colon and rectal surgery fellowship>>
Research
The Section of Colon and Rectal Surgery has a strong commitment to medical and scientific research with ongoing collaborative projects that focus on state-of-the art research related to colorectal surgery. We are studying risk factors for cancer recurrence, therapies for rectal cancer, databases of Crohn’s and hereditary colon and rectal diseases, and outcomes and efficacy of minimally invasive treatment options, among other areas of research focus.
Our faculty
William C. Chapman, Jr., MD, MPHS
Assistant Professor
Section of Colon and Rectal Surgery
Division of General Surgery
- Phone: 314-454-7177
Michelle L. Cowan, MD
Associate Professor of Surgery
Section of Colon and Rectal Surgery
Associate Director, Colon and Rectal Surgery Fellowship Program
- Phone: 314-454-7177
Steven R. Hunt, MD
Professor of Surgery
Section of Colon and Rectal Surgery
Division of General Surgery
- Phone: 314-454-7177
