I am a surgical oncologist and board certified colorectal surgeon with special training in the treatment of colon, rectal, and anal cancer. My patient-centered practice emphasizes sphincter-preserving surgery for rectal cancer, which enables patients to avoid having a permanent colostomy (commonly called “a bag”). I am the co-principal investigator of a protocol involving implantation of an artificial bowel sphincter in select rectal cancer patients who would otherwise require a permanent colostomy. Whenever possible, I perform laparoscopic (minimally invasive) colorectal surgery to minimize incisions and reduce pain. For more complex cases, I am part of a multidisciplinary team of specialists performing extensive open surgeries such as sacrectomy, total pelvic exenteration, and debulking of appendiceal cancers, as well as palliative procedures for patients with metastatic disease. My clinical practice also includes many patients who have anorectal squamous cell carcinoma. Additionally, I oversee the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Colorectal Survivorship Clinic.
I have received multiple research grants. My research focuses on patient functional issues and quality of life after colorectal cancer surgery. I assess bowel, bladder and sexual function in patients who have undergone rectal cancer treatment, measuring the impact of functional changes on their quality of life. I am currently developing educational tools that will enhance communication between physicians and patients. The purpose of this is to empower patients so that they can make informed, realistic decisions about surgical options and participate more fully in their own care. Also, I have a special interest in the concerns of women with colorectal cancer, and am currently involved in a funded study to improve women’s sexual health following rectal cancer treatment.
I am a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons (Canada). I have co-authored many papers on colon and rectal cancer treatment and outcomes, and lecture on these topics nationally and internationally.
Experience / Training
Specialty:
Oncology
A self-designated specialty or practice area is not equivalent to, nor does it imply, ABMS Board Certification or special training and competence.
Medical School:
University of Calgary Faculty of Medicine Calgary, AB
Residency:
University of Toronto Toronto,
Fellowship:
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital
Health Plan / Other
Health Plans:
United Health Care
Disciplinary Actions
HealthGrades has examined disciplinary actions within the last five years from the Office of Inspector General and 50 state medical boards.
HealthGrades could not detect any disciplinary actions for Dr. Larissa K. Temple, MD
as of 12/09/2009. Note: HealthGrades reports on state and federal disciplinary actions (if any) from the previous five years.
Malpractice History
HealthGrades did not find any closed malpractice claims for
Dr. Larissa K.
Temple, MD
in the states of California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, North Dakota, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Vermont, or West Virginia.
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