Center for Colorectal Surgery
The UCSF Center for Colorectal Surgery offers the latest surgical treatments for conditions affecting the colon, rectum and anus. These include colon and rectal cancers as well as noncancerous conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease) and pelvic floor disorders.
Our colorectal surgeons are leaders in the use of minimally invasive techniques, including laparoscopic and robot-assisted surgeries. These advanced approaches reduce post-op pain and speed up recovery and lower the risk of complications. Known for handling the most challenging cases safely and effectively, we regularly care for patients who were turned away by other institutions due to having a rare condition or a complicated mix of conditions.
Patient-focused research and clinical trials
The UCSF Center for Colorectal Surgery is committed to advancing medical knowledge and improving patient care through research. Our specialists participate in studies that aim to enhance the understanding of colon and rectal conditions, evaluate the effectiveness of existing treatments and assess potential new ones. Patients may be eligible to participate in clinical trials, which are studies that use human volunteers to evaluate promising treatments.
Awards & recognition
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Among the top hospitals in the nation
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Best in Northern California and No. 7 in the nation for cancer care
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One of the nation's best for gastroenterology & GI surgery
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Rated high-performing hospital for colon cancer surgery
Our locations
Our team
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Hueylan Chern
MD
Colorectal surgeon -
Emily Finlayson
MD, MS
Colorectal surgeon -
Madhulika G. Varma
MD
Colorectal surgeon -
Elizabeth C. Wick
MD
Colorectal surgeon -
B. Mark Zhao
MD, MAS
Colorectal surgeon -
Darlene Chow
LCSW, MSW
Social worker -
Alexandra (Alli) Hom
PA-C
Physician assistant -
Diana Ziser Rego
NP, MSN
Nurse practitioner -
Nancy Rivas
FNP, MSN
Nurse practitioner -
Jabarri Robertson
NP, MSN
Nurse practitioner -
Rebeca Salmon
NP, MSN
Nurse practitioner -
Zaira Torres
NP, DNP
Nurse practitioner
Early-Onset Colon Cancer
Colon cancer rates are rising for people under 50. Watch leading doctors discuss possible reasons, risk factors and available treatments.
Clinical trials
PrehabPal: A Digital Tool to Help Older Adults Prepare for Cancer Surgery
The proportion of days before surgery engaged in prehabilitation between subjects randomized to the PrehabPal Web App and written prehabilitation materials using logistic regression. Since sites may not balance, all relevant socio...
Recruiting
Accreditations & memberships
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National Cancer Institute
The National Cancer Institute has designated UCSF a comprehensive cancer center, its highest ranking. This designation is awarded to centers that demonstrate scientific excellence and the ability to conduct cancer research across many disciplines.
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Commission on Cancer
UCSF's cancer programs have been accredited by the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer (CoC) since 1933. The CoC is a consortium of groups dedicated to improving cancer patients' survival and quality of life via research, education and better medical care.
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National Comprehensive Cancer Network
UCSF is a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, an alliance of the world’s top cancer centers. The network brings together leaders in treatment and research to improve the quality, effectiveness and efficiency of cancer care.
Support services
Plan your visit
What to Bring
- Photo I.D.
- Health insurance card
- Insurance authorization, if required
- Doctor's referral, if required
- Recent test results related to your condition
- List of your medications, including dosages, plus any you're allergic to
- List of questions you may have
- Device or paper for taking notes
Related clinics
Our research initiatives
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UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center Research
UCSF is home to a range of research initiatives aimed at improving outcomes for cancer patients everywhere. This includes research on topics such as immunotherapy, BRCA mutations and molecular diagnostic testing.
