Kristy K. Rumer, M.D., Ph.D.

Kristen K. Rumer, M.D., Ph.D., is a colon and rectal surgeon at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, who provides expert surgical care for people facing complex conditions of the colon and rectum, including cancer and inflammatory disease. Her practice integrates advanced techniques with a commitment to improving patient outcomes through individualized care. She founded and is the Director of the High Resolution Anoscopy clinic with the mission of preventing anal cancer through screening and treating anal dysplasia.

Dr. Rumer is board-certified by the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. She also holds a PhD in cell and developmental biology with an emphasis in reproductive biology, reflecting her dedication to advancing science alongside clinical excellence. As part of her commitment to providing the innovative and evidence-directed care, she participates in international colorectal surgical societies and is editor of the World Journal of Colorectal surgery.

Areas of Expertise

Dr. Rumer focuses on comprehensive care and advanced surgical approaches for colorectal conditions, including cancer and disease management. Her clinical focus includes:

• Colon cancer surgery: Procedures designed to remove malignant tissue while preserving bowel function.
• Colorectal surgery: Full-spectrum surgical care for benign and malignant diseases of the colon and rectum.
• Rectal cancer surgery: Advanced operative techniques for rectal cancer, including sphincter-preserving procedures.
• High-resolution anoscopy: Screening and treatment of anal dysplasia for cancer prevention.
• Management of inflammatory bowel disease: Surgical interventions for Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
• Anorectal disease: Comprehensive evaluation and surgical management of hemorrhoids, anal fistulas, anal fissures, perianal Crohn's disease, and extramammary Paget disease.

Research & Professional Highlights

Dr. Rumer is active in research on surgical innovation, cancer prevention, and immune profiling in inflammatory bowel disease. She serves as Vice Chair for research in Mayo Clinic's Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery. Her academic contributions include numerous peer-reviewed publications, book chapters on colorectal and pelvic surgery, and leadership roles in professional societies such as the International Society of University Colon and Rectal Surgeons. She is certified in Mayo Clinic Quality Academy practices, underscoring her commitment to safety and quality improvement.