Colorectal Surgeon in Houston Highlights Importance of Colon Cancer Screenings and Treatment Options

HOUSTON, TX--(Marketwire - Mar 29, 2013) -  In light of Colon Cancer Awareness Month, Houston colorectal surgeon Dr. Eric Haas and his fellow medical professionals at Colorectal Surgical Associates strive to enlighten the public about the importance of colon cancer screenings. According to Dr. Haas, colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States; however, he adds that about 95% of patients are cured of the deadly disease when it is caught at an early stage. In fact, he says colon cancer is one of a handful of cancers that can actually be prevented with early detection from a comprehensive colon cancer screening.

Should colon cancer or any other abnormality be detected during a screening, Dr. Haas says he will determine the most effective plan of action based on the individual circumstances. At Colorectal Surgical Associates, Dr. Haas and his surgical team perform a number of different techniques to remove colon cancer, including: robotic surgery; single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS™); and laparoscopic colon surgery. Additionally, the Houston colon surgeon also treats colorectal diseases such as diverticulitis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, rectal prolapse, and large colon polyps among a variety of other issues.

An early adaptor and innovator of minimally-invasive surgery for colon cancer, Dr. Haas says advancements in colorectal surgery are changing the way conlon cancer can be treated. In regard to his minimally-invasive surgical techniques, he says the resulting scar is very small -- about one to two inches -- and recovery is typically much easier compared to traditional open methods. Additionally, the Houston colorectal surgeon notes that patients who undergo minimally-invasive colon surgery generally experience shorter hospital stays, less pain, fewer fevers or complications, faster recovery times, and are able to return to work and daily living much quicker.

About Eric Haas, MD, FACS, FASCRS

A graduate of the University of Texas Medical School at Houston, Dr. Eric Haas is double board-certified by the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. He is dedicated to providing the Houston community a number of colorectal and pelvic health treatments ranging from laparoscopic surgery and robotic surgery, to hemorrhoid treatment and pelvic muscle rehabilitation. Dr. Haas is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He serves as the Program Director of the Minimally Invasive Colon and Rectal Surgery Fellowship at The University of Texas in Houston and is an active member of the teaching faculty for the Baylor College of Medicine. He is also available for interview upon request.