Surgical working group for coloproctology (CACP)

The surgical working group for coloproctology (Chirurgische Arbeitsgemeinschaft Coloproktologie - CACP) represents the focus on coloproctology within the DGAV. Coloproctology is an integral part of surgery and comprises the majority of visceral operations in many surgical clinics and deparments. 

The focus can be subdivided into general and specific surgical coloproctology, although the division is not always clear. General coloproctology includes the treatment of appendicitis, diverticulitis and oncological resection of the large intestine. Common general procological diseases include hemorrhoids, anal fistulas, anal fissures, and infected pilonidal sinus. 

In contrast, specific coloproctology includes the multimodal therapy of rectal cancer, which surgically can include treatments ranging from transanal tumor operations to multivisceral resections in locally advanced cancers. The interdisciplinary therapy of chronic inflammatory bowel disease should also be mentioned. At the proctological level, diagnostics and therapy of complex pelvic floor dysfunctions — for example anorectal incontinence, many forms of outlet obstruction, and also the so-called complex fistulas associated with e.g. Crohn's disease — require specialized facilities. 

With regard to these considerations, the steering committee has long been making efforts arguing for the adequate recognition of and certificates for competence and reference centers, in order to document the high quality criteria and standards of the working group and its members.