Dr. Francisco Itriago specializes in minimally invasive and robotic procedures to treat diseases of the colon and rectum. He is the founder and director of the Colorectal Clinic of Tampa Bay (CRCTB), a division of Suncoast Surgical Associates.
What kind of colorectal disease do you treat?
At the Colorectal Clinic of Tampa Bay, I offer treatment for a wide variety of colon and rectal conditions, including surgical and nonsurgical conditions related to colon and rectal surgery, such as diverticulitis, hemorrhoids, colon polyps, colon cancer and IBD, among others.
How would someone know if they have a colon or rectal cancer?
Colon and rectal cancer can be very vague in its earliest presentation, sometimes showing little to no symptoms at its beginning stages. That is why it is extremely important to focus on the preventative aspect of colon and rectal cancer with colonoscopies at the appropriate age. The most recent recommendation for screening with colonoscopies was changed from 50 years old without any high risk factors to 45 years old, based on the increased rate of colon and rectal cancer in younger patients seen recently. Those recommendations can change depending on family history or other conditions where there is a higher risk of developing colon cancer at an early age. The signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer can include blood in the stool, anemia, unintentional weight loss, and a change in the caliber and frequency of bowel movements.
What are some of the latest advancements in the treatment options for colon and rectal cancer?
Fortunately over the past few years, less invasive surgical approaches have been developed, and I am especially interested in combining the robot with transanal surgery called TAMIS. TAMIS allows me to treat tumors and cancers that would have previously required a patient to have a permanent colostomy with a much less invasive approach that preserves their anal function. It is always important for any colorectal surgeon to follow oncologic principles (optimizing tumor/cancer removal to ensure complete removal and appropriate staging). Robotic surgery offers me advantages to operate in confined spaces like the pelvis, and it allows me to have increased maneuverability and precision when I operate. Patients have improved outcomes, less pain and quicker recovery.
What should patients know about the Colorectal Clinic of Tampa Bay?
We have three surgeons, including myself, at CRCTB. Dr. InSoon Park trained at Mount Sinai in New York City, and Dr. Jeffrey Mino trained at the Cleveland Clinic. All three of us are dedicated to and specialize in colorectal and anorectal issues.
Q&A with Dr. Itriago
Favorite vacation spot? Hacienda Iguana in Nicaragua, and Park City, Utah
Favorite restaurant? El Puerto in Ybor City
Favorite way to spend the weekend? Kiteboarding with my family
Favorite healthy living tip? Eat tons of fiber daily, ideally 25 to 30 grams
COLORECTAL CLINIC OF TAMPA BAY
Locations in Tampa, Brandon and Riverview
(813) 685-7995
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