How bariatric surgery restored a Rutherford mom's life
August 5, 2026
After years of struggling, Rutherford resident Larina lost over 200 pounds following bariatric surgery with Dr. Stephen Rich at Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford.
Colon cancer screening
Specialists at Ascension Saint Thomas offer colonoscopies to help detect polyps and colon cancer early. Schedule a colon screening.
Colorectal cancer screening in Nashville
Specialists at Ascension Saint Thomas offer colonoscopies to help detect polyps and colon cancer early
About colon cancer screenings at Ascension Saint Thomas
Getting regular colonoscopies may help find polyps and cancer early, when they are most treatable. When polyps and cancer are found early, there may be more options for treatment too. Ascension Saint Thomas, in Middle Tennessee, we provide colonoscopies and at-home colorectal tests that are right for you based on your age, family history, smoking history and other risk factors.
Nationally accredited for rectal cancer care
At Ascension Saint Thomas, we’re honored to be accredited by the American College of Surgeons (ACS), a leader in surgical care for over a century. Our participation in the ACS National Accreditation Program for Rectal Cancer (NAPRC) ensures that you receive the highest standard of care, guided by proven, multidisciplinary approaches.
The NAPRC program is built on internationally recognized best practices designed to improve the diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer. Our experienced doctors and care team deliver advanced surgical and nonsurgical care to help:
- Enhance your quality of life
- Improve functionality of the rectum
- Increase survival rates
- Reduce the recurrence of this cancer
When it comes to your health, trust in the quality and expertise that come with ACS accreditation.
Colon cancer screening recommendation
At Ascension Saint Thomas Cancer Care, we recommend men and women get their first colonoscopy at age 45. You may need to get a colonoscopy earlier if you have a personal or family history of polyps or colon cancer, diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease, or if you have symptoms such as:
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Change in bowel habits
- Rectal bleeding
- Unexplained weight loss
Talk to your primary care doctor about scheduling a colonoscopy or other colon screening. We’ll connect you with the right specialist for the colonoscopy and follow-up care.
What to expect during a colonoscopy
During your colonoscopy, you'll receive anesthesia before the colonoscope — a long, flexible tube containing a small camera — is inserted into your colon. This camera helps your doctor find polyps. Colon screenings aren’t just for finding cancer, but for stopping it before it starts. While not all polyps are cancerous, they can become cancerous in the future. That’s why it's important to identify and sometimes remove polyps.
Comprehensive care for colon and rectal cancer
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in men and women. Early and accurate screening and diagnoses are important. And getting the right treatment at the right time decreases the challenges of later-stage colon cancer diagnosis. From colonoscopy and the removal of precancerous polyps to colon surgery, targeted radiation treatment and chemotherapy, our cancer care team has the expertise to deliver treatment options for both early and later-stage cancer diagnoses.
Your doctor and care team work together with you on a care plan. Your colorectal surgeon will answer your questions, paying attention to your physical and emotional needs and those of your caregivers, including what you can eat. In addition to your surgeon, your care team may include a medical oncologist, radiation oncologist, radiation therapist, oncology-certified nurses, dietitian, social worker, chaplain and supportive palliative care specialist. And your entire care team stays connected to discuss your treatment and progress. As your care needs change, we’re ready to support you.
Get a second opinion on your cancer diagnosis or care plan
When you are facing a new cancer diagnosis or are deciding on a surgical or therapeutic treatment plan, there’s a lot to think about. Our cancer specialists can provide a second opinion, based on our experience and as part of a national team.
Before your appointment, check with your insurance company to find out if a second opinion is covered. We can request your medical records on your behalf, so they can be shared with your care team before your arrival.
Frequently asked questions about our cancer care services
Your doctor and care team get to know you well, and you’ll receive care for the whole person – from physical health and well-being to mental and emotional health to support for your family and caregivers. At Ascension Saint Thomas, we provide innovative medication treatments, the latest surgical technologies and techniques, high-tech radiation facilities and support services. Our oncologists are part of a national team of cancer specialists sharing the latest in cancer care knowledge and research.
We can connect you with resources and programs that may be able to help you and your family with options for financial assistance. Our financial counseling team is here to listen to your concerns and work with you to help find options that meet your needs. Your cancer care team can connect you to a financial counselor.
At Ascension Saint Thomas cancer center and clinics, we offer convenient parking. Talk to your care team if you have transportation needs.
Surgical oncologists and anesthesiologists provide enhanced recovery pathways as part of your surgical care plan. They are an important part of our cancer treatment programs. Each pathway is personalized for different types of cancer treatment, to help speed up your recovery after surgery. Your care team uses these protocols to help you prepare for what to expect before, during and after surgery.
Ascension Saint Thomas Medical Partners Rutherford Gastroenterology
2755 New Salem Rd #200
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
Ascension Saint Thomas Medical Partners Nashville Specialty Center
300 20th Ave North. Suite #301
Nashville, TN 37203
Ascension Saint Thomas Medical Partners West Specialty Center
4230 Harding Pike #530
Nashville, TN 37205
If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, go directly to the ER or call 911.
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Stories you'll love
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To fulfill an Ascension Living Alexian Village Tennessee resident’s dying wish, activities coordinator Amber Beam brought the New York Metropolitan Opera to Chattanooga, Tennessee.
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After two decades of seeking care for her heart symptoms, a referral to the Women's Heart Center at Ascension Saint Thomas Heart in Nashville, TN, gives a great-grandmother more time to enjoy her growing family.
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Dr. Robert Rampp, general and endocrine surgeon at Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford, helped a Murfreesboro native detect thyroid cancer and saved his life.
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A Lascassas, Tenn., couple received a heart bypass and kidney transplant at Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital West on the same day, then recovered and went home together.
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After years of struggling with her weight, Stephanie turned to Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford in Murfreesboro for bariatric surgery that changed her life.
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In 2024, Dr. Stephen Rich, helps a patient with his bariatric journey at the Ascension Saint Thomas Bariatric Center.
Lung scan saves Nashville man’s life
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A routine lung scan at Ascension Saint Thomas in Nashville revealed a hidden tumor in 63-year-old Greg Hall, leading to life-saving treatment and recovery.
Bariatric surgery transforms Murfreesboro woman's life
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After undergoing bariatric surgery at Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford, Ellen regained the energy to fully enjoy life again.
Routine lung scan saves Murfreesboro woman’s life
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Joint surgery helps Nashville horsewoman get back in the saddle
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With the help of the Ascension Saint Thomas Joint Replacement Institute, a Nashville woman overcame joint pain and is now thriving on the set of ABC’s 9-1-1 Nashville.
General surgery at Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford helps patient heal after misdiagnosis
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Dr. Mark Manwaring, colon and rectal surgeon at Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford in Murfreesboro, Tennessee helps a patient find answers to symptoms that suggest Crohn’s disease.
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Ascension Saint Thomas West Hospital in Nashville, TN, quickly responds to patients experiencing strokes and provides neurology and rehabilitation care to help with recovery.
In January 2024, longtime CNA discovered she had an ischemic stroke, and Dr. Lani Thomas performed a life-saving thrombectomy at Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford in Murfreesboro, TN.
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Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital West performs first robotic tracheobronchoplasty in Tennessee
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Legendary musician credits Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital West for life-saving cardiac surgery
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Middle Tennessee mother completes her treatment for ovarian cancer
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Dr. Jason Barnett, a gynecologic oncologist at Tennessee Oncology, helped treat a mother of two with a diagnosis of ovarian cancer that had spread to other parts of her body while receiving care at Ascension Saint Thomas Midtown.
John Spooner, MD, neurosurgeon at Howell Allen Clinic with Ascension Saint Thomas in Nashville, TN, helps a grandmother with a large brain aneurysm get back to creating art.
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