Larissa K.F. Temple, MD, FACS, FRCS(C)

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.