Greater Baltimore Medical Center (GBMC) - Baltimore, Maryland

Colorectal Oncology

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer among adults but is also the most preventable and treatable form of the disease when detected in its earliest stages.

Regular screenings available at GBMC, including colonoscopy, allow for early detection and can prevent the development of many colorectal cancers.  If a malignancy is detected, colorectal surgeons use advanced techniques such as preservation surgery for the treatment of colon and bowel cancers, offering patients improved quality of life.

George Apostolides, MD, FACS Dr. Apostolides is the Division Head of Colorectal Surgery and Director of Colon and Rectal Surgery Residency Program. He earned his medical degree from St. Joseph's University, completed his residency at St. Agnes Hospital and completed his fellowship at GBMC. He is a board-certified in colon and rectal surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons.

Lisa Savoie, MD, FACS Dr. Savoie is the Assistant Director of the Colon and Rectal Surgery Residency Program and is a colorectal surgeon. She earned her medical degree at the Medical College of Pennsylvania, where she also completed her residency. She was fellowship trained at GBMC. She's board-certified in colon and rectal surgery and general surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons.

Services Offered

The Colorectal Surgeons at GBMC are experts in the treatment of various gastrointestinal conditions including:

• Colonoscopy - diagnostic and therapeutic
• Laparoscopic and open colon resection
• Sphincter preserving cancer procedures
• Endorectal Ultrasound for staging

• Multidisciplinary approach to cancer of the colon and rectum

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

What are some signs and symptoms of colon cancer?

Symptoms can include abdominal pain, change in bowel habits, rectal bleeding and unexplained weight loss. All symptoms should be fully evaluated by your physician.

Who's at risk for developing colon cancer?

About 75% of colorectal cancer occurs in people with no risk factors, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Some conditions can elevate a person's risk, including family history, inflammatory bowel disease, and genetic syndromes such as familial adenomatous polyposis or hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer.

How can I reduce my risk of developing colon cancer?

Having regular screenings beginning at age 50 reduces colorectal cancer deaths. Increased physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight may also lower risk.

What is a colonoscopy?

This is an examination of the colon and rectum. The procedure uses a camera attached to a flexible tube that's used to examine the colon lining.

What's the average length of a colonoscopy?

This procedure itself generally takes less than 30 minutes.
The total time required for this procedure is generally between 2 ½ - 3 hours.

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