Endometriosis for the colorectal surgeon.

Endometriosis is defined as the presence of endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterine cavity. Although the exact pathophysiology is unclear, endometriosis is a well-known cause of pelvic pain and infertility in reproductive-aged women. Endometriosis can have extrapelvic manifestations relevant for colorectal surgeons to appreciate, such as cyclic constipation, diarrhea, hematochezia, and dyschezia. The treatment of endometriosis involves a combination of medical and surgical interventions where close collaboration between the gynecologist and colorectal surgeon can help achieve prolonged periods of symptom remission.