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Absite Review Questions Colorectal Surgery: A Comprehensive Guide

Allen Ginsberg

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The American Board of Surgery In-Training Examination (ABSITE) is a standardized exam taken by surgical residents in the United States. The exam covers a wide range of surgical topics, including colorectal surgery. In order to prepare for the ABSITE, it is important to review high-yield topics and practice answering questions in a timed setting. This article provides a comprehensive review of colorectal surgery topics that are commonly tested on the ABSITE.

Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus or rectum. They can be internal or external, and they can cause pain, itching, and bleeding. Treatment options include sclerotherapy, rubber band ligation, and hemorrhoidectomy.
Anal fissure: An anal fissure is a tear in the lining of the anus. It can be caused by hard stools, diarrhea, or childbirth. Symptoms include pain, bleeding, and itching. Treatment options include sitz baths, stool softeners, and surgery.
Fistula-in-ano: A fistula-in-ano is an abnormal connection between the anus and the skin. It can be caused by an infection, Crohn's disease, or trauma. Symptoms include pain, drainage, and swelling. Treatment options include antibiotics, drainage, and surgery.
Pilonidal cyst: A pilonidal cyst is a cyst that forms in the crease of the buttocks. It can be caused by hair follicles that become infected. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and drainage. Treatment options include antibiotics, incision and drainage, and surgery.

Diverticulosis: Diverticulosis is a condition in which pouches (diverticula) form in the wall of the colon. It is a common condition that usually does not cause any symptoms. However, diverticula can become inflamed or infected, leading to diverticulitis.
Diverticulitis: Diverticulitis is an inflammation or infection of diverticula. Symptoms include abdominal pain, fever, and chills. Treatment options include antibiotics, pain relievers, and surgery.

Risk factors: Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Risk factors for colorectal cancer include age, family history, smoking, obesity, and a diet high in red meat and processed meats.
Symptoms: Colorectal cancer often does not cause any symptoms in its early stages. As the cancer grows, it can cause abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, and weight loss.
Diagnosis: Colorectal cancer is diagnosed with a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is a procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end is inserted into the rectum and colon.
Treatment: Treatment options for colorectal cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The type of treatment will depend on the stage of the cancer.

Pathophysiology: Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the lining of the colon and rectum. It is thought to be caused by an autoimmune reaction.
Symptoms: Symptoms of ulcerative colitis include abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloody stools, and weight loss.
Treatment: Treatment options for ulcerative colitis include medications, surgery, and dietary changes. Medications that are used to treat ulcerative colitis include mesalamine, sulfasalazine, and corticosteroids. Surgery may be necessary to remove the affected portion of the colon or rectum.

Pathophysiology: Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the digestive tract from the mouth to the anus. It is thought to be caused by an autoimmune reaction.
Symptoms: Symptoms of Crohn's disease include abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue.
Treatment: Treatment options for Crohn's disease include medications, surgery, and dietary changes. Medications that are used to treat Crohn's disease include mesalamine, sulfasalazine, and corticosteroids. Surgery may be necessary to remove the affected portion of the digestive tract.

Pathophysiology: Ischemic colitis is a condition in which the blood supply to the colon is blocked. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including atherosclerosis, emboli, and vasculitis.
Symptoms: Symptoms of ischemic colitis include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloody stools.
Treatment: Treatment options for ischemic colitis include antibiotics, pain relievers, and surgery. Surgery may be necessary to remove the affected portion of the colon.

Blunt trauma: Blunt trauma to the abdomen can cause a variety of injuries to the colon and rectum. These injuries can range from minor contusions to