Colorectal Medicine in Paris

Colorectal medicine is a field of medicine that focuses on the disorders of the colon, rectum, and anus. Physicians specializing in this field of medicine are called colorectal doctor or colon and rectal doctor. They are trained to diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of diseases, including Hemorrhoids, Anal itching, Fistulas, Anal fissures, Anal cancer, Colon cancer, Rectal cancer, Chron’s disease, Diverticulitis, Ulcerative colitis, Pilonidal cysts, Rectal prolapse, Fecal incontinence, Anal condyloma, Chronic constipation, Problems with bowel movements and urination.

Colorectal doctors are highly experienced and qualified to use numerous medical procedures to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the colon, rectum, and anus. These procedures include, but are not limited to Physical exams, including evaluation of vital signs and blood pressure, Colonoscopy, Barium enema, Digital rectal examination, Capsule Endoscopy, Proctoscopy, Sigmoidoscopy, Defecating proctography, Bowel surveillance.

Some colorectal doctors are also trained to perform surgery, such as bowel obstruction repair, pelvic laparoscopy, colectomy, colostomy, hemorrhoidectomy, polypectomy, strictureplasty, and more depending on the patient’s particular condition. They can also prescribe medications, such as antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs.

How Long Should I Stay in Paris?

The length of stay depends on the type of procedure you underwent. For most diagnostic procedures, you should be able to leave Paris within 2 to 3 days or until the results are ready. Once the result is ready, you will have to see your colorectal doctor. They will explain the results and discuss the treatment plan with you, if necessary. For surgical procedures, it is wise to stay for 3 to 7 days to let your body recover. You may also need to attend a follow-up checkup where your doctor removes the surgical stitches and monitor your healing progress.

What's the Expected Recovery Time?

For many procedures, such as colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy, you should be able to resume normal activities within 24 hours or after the sedation wears off. With surgical procedures, it may take around six to twelve weeks until you can go back to your normal activity, with the exception of strenuous activities. Your doctor will give you a recovery timeline, which includes when you can return to work and your full daily activities.

What Aftercare is Required?

Your medical team will give you aftercare instructions. It may include recommended diet, exercises, activity restrictions, and wound care (if any incision were made). For cancer patients, you may need to attend regular checkups. You do have the option to have the checkups with your local doctor at home if you cannot travel to Paris multiple times. For non-cancer patients, your doctor will decide whether you need a follow-up checkup or not.

What's the Success Rate?

Thanks to the continuous advancement of colorectal medicine, the diagnostic procedures are now more accurate and the treatments are more successful than they were previously. More and more procedures are performed using new techniques and technology as well. For example, your doctor can now explore the entire colon without creating any incision or causing significant discomfort to you by using colon capsule endoscopy. However, this does not mean that there are no risks to colorectal procedures. Although uncommon, you still need to be aware of the risks, such as bleeding and infection.

Are there Alternatives?

In some cases, your general physician may be able to diagnose and treat your condition. However, if they think you need specialist treatment, they will still refer you to a colorectal doctor. 

Colorectal Medicine in and around Paris

About Paris

Paris is the capital and most populous city of France and it is the second-most visited country in the world and it is easy to see why. The city is considered as an international center of fashion, culture, art, and gastronomy. Its boulevards are lined with museums, world-famous monuments, classical bistros and boutiques, wine bars, and design shops that successfully captured the heart of its visitors. Besides a popular destination for leisure, Paris is also one of the leaders in Europe for medical tourism. Hospitals and clinics in the city are well-equipped and are able to perform all manner of medical treatments for international tourists. The doctors and nurses offer the highest level of care that is hard to rival. 

Popular Parts of Paris

Paris is filled with iconic monuments with thousands of years of history. The most popular attraction of the city, as well as France’s symbol, is the Eiffel Tower. Visitors are allowed to climb as far as the 2nd floor via the south pillar’s 720 stairs or ride the elevator to the top. Besides the Eiffel Tower, visitors can stroll around the glamorous avenue des Champs-Élysées and admire Arc De Triomphe, admire the exquisite décor of Sainte-Chapelle, wander along the Seine, or try the city’s art nouveau cafes. Visiting Paris will never be complete without exploring its museums. One of the most popular is the Louvre, which is the biggest museum in the world with thousands of famous works, including the Mona Lisa.

Transport in Paris

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport is the main international gateway to the city. It connects the city with almost every country around the world. Getting around Paris is easy as the city boasts one of the most efficient public transportation systems in the world. The metro subway system is extensive, generally safe, easy to use, and the trains usually arrive on time. The buses are spacious and affordable. There is also a commuter express (“RER”) train service that will take you to the city’s most important areas. Taxis are available and can be found easily.

Visas in Paris

France is a member of the Schengen Agreement, meaning citizens of 62 countries, including Singapore, the US, and Australia do not need a visa to enter and stay in the country for up to 90 days. Other nationals not listed in the visa-free entry should obtain and apply for a visa and always check at the nearest French embassy or consulate for the requirements.

Weather in Paris

Spring (March-May) has mild temperatures with a lot of rainy days. Summer starts in June bringing warm temperatures and sunny days. The average temperature during the summer is around 18°C. The temperature will slowly decrease in autumn (September – November), but the weather is still generally pleasant. Winter can be cold as the temperature drop to 4°C. 

Additional Info

1. Local Currency: The official currency is the euro. 1 EUR is approx. 1.12 USD.
2. Money & Payments: ATMs are widely available. Debit and credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Tipping can be mandatory in certain places.
3. Local Language: French is the official language, but many people in tourist areas speak English. 
4. Local Culture and Religion: Paris has a diverse religion, with Christianity as the biggest. Other religions, such as Islam, Buddhism, and Judaism, are present.
5. Public Holidays: Paris celebrates 11 official public holidays, including New Year’s Day, Easter Monday, Bastille Day, and Christmas Day.