expert type icon EXPERT

Rami Makhoul

Colon and Rectal Surgeon

Dr. Rami Makhoul is a colon and rectal surgeon practicing in Rockville, MD. Dr. Makhoul specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the colon, rectum and anus. As a colon and rectal surgeon, Dr. Makhoul often treats conditions like rectal cancer, colon cancer, hemorrhoids, anal fissures and diverticulitis. Colon and rectal surgeons may be referred to you by your gastroenterologist if your doctor believes you need a surgical procedure.
19 years Experience
Rami Makhoul
  • Rockville, MD
  • University of Balamand
  • Accepting new patients

Rectum itch?

Would recommend an anorectal examination to rule out any underlying reasons for anal itching such as hemorrhoids

How is IBD treated in elderly patients?

IBS is different than IBD. They should not be confused as treatment is completely different.

Does IBS require surgery?

Definitely not. This is a functional problem and should only be treated medically.

What are the symptoms to detect colon and rectal cancer?

Bloody stools may be a sign of colorectal cancer. But there are many other reasons for rectal bleeding. If your has never had a colonoscopy before, I would highly recommend getting READ MORE
Bloody stools may be a sign of colorectal cancer. But there are many other reasons for rectal bleeding. If your has never had a colonoscopy before, I would highly recommend getting one as soon as possible. I hope this is helpful.

Crohn's and bowel cancer?

Family history of crohn's is not a risk for developing colon cancer.

Bleeding after a colonoscopy

This is most likely a post polypectomy bleeding. Most of these are self resolved. But you certainly need to be checked in the ER especially if you have several bloody bowel movements. READ MORE
This is most likely a post polypectomy bleeding. Most of these are self resolved. But you certainly need to be checked in the ER especially if you have several bloody bowel movements.

Rectal surgery?

You can use baby wipes or wet toilet paper

Rectum problems?

This could be an infection or an external hemorrhoid. It’s important to get checked by a colon and rectal specialist.

Opening near rectum after colonoscopy?

This is likely not secondary to the colonoscopy. Examination by a specialist is necessary to exclude other processes such as anal fistula.

How do I remove this permanently?

These are likely hemorrhoids. The most important thing is to avoid straining and constipation. You may want to increase the amount of fiber in your diet or use stool softeners. READ MORE
These are likely hemorrhoids. The most important thing is to avoid straining and constipation. You may want to increase the amount of fiber in your diet or use stool softeners.

Diverticulitis ongoing and very painful?

Looks like you may have reached the point where surgery is required. Given the frequency and intensity of these flares, I would highly consider surgical intervention. You need READ MORE
Looks like you may have reached the point where surgery is required. Given the frequency and intensity of these flares, I would highly consider surgical intervention. You need to consult with a colorectal surgeon to discuss your surgical options. I hope this is helpful.

Can I get rid of an abscess close to my anus with an antibiotic?

Usually antibiotics alone are not sufficient. You need to have an incision and drainage procedure to clear the infection.

Perianal abscess?

Hello. This is likely an anal fistula. These can develop in 50% of anorectal abscess cases. The treatment for this is usually surgical. It is important to get evaluated by a specialist READ MORE
Hello. This is likely an anal fistula. These can develop in 50% of anorectal abscess cases. The treatment for this is usually surgical. It is important to get evaluated by a specialist or a colorectal surgeon.

I need help diagnosing flesh strand in rectal cavity?

This could be an external hemorrhoid. It is important to have a thorough anorectal examination by a specialist to help diagnose the problem.

Why am I bleeding after colonoscopy?

It is possible to have some bleeding after a colonoscopy for few days. It usually self resolves after few days. If it persists please contact your gastroenterologist.

Why does my rectum burn after a colonoscopy?

That is usually due to the bowel preparation and the frequent bowel movements. You can apply Vaseline or Desitin, and should resolve in few days. If it doesn’t please contact your READ MORE
That is usually due to the bowel preparation and the frequent bowel movements. You can apply Vaseline or Desitin, and should resolve in few days. If it doesn’t please contact your gastroenterologist.

Hemorrhoid large excruciatingly painful?

This is likely an abscess that drained itself. But there seems to be an underlying fistula tract causing it to recur. You will need evaluation by a colorectal surgeon or a specialist READ MORE
This is likely an abscess that drained itself. But there seems to be an underlying fistula tract causing it to recur. You will need evaluation by a colorectal surgeon or a specialist to diagnose and fix the problem. Anal fistula can only be repaired surgically. I hope this is helpful.

Can I have general anesthesia for a colonoscopy?

These procedures are usually done under general anesthesia unless there is a serious contraindication to general anesthesia.

Annual check up with new doctor?

A rectal examination at this age is not required unless there is an ongoing anorectal problem.

What do I do?

Try taking an enema or a strong laxative like milk of magnesia