Dr. Larissa Temple

Dr. Larissa K. Temple, MD, is a nationally respected colorectal surgeon celebrated for her authoritative work in colorectal cancer surgery and surgical quality improvement. She serves as Chief of the Division of Colorectal Surgery and Director of the Surgical Health Outcomes & Research Enterprise (SHORE) at the University of Rochester Medical Center. Dr. Temple earned her medical degree from the University of Calgary, followed by rigorous residency training through the Surgeon‑Scientist Program at the University of Toronto. She completed fellowships in surgical oncology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and colorectal surgery at St. Luke’s–Roosevelt Hospital. Board‑certified in General Surgery and Colon & Rectal Surgery, she brings deep expertise to complex colorectal malignancies and advanced pelvic procedures.

Dr. Temple is recognized for pioneering contributions to functional outcomes research and quality of care in rectal cancer treatment. She developed the MSK Bowel Function Instrument, a validated tool used internationally to assess patient-centered postoperative function following rectal excision. Her work evaluating survivorship, bowel function, and hospital variation in care quality has informed national standards and led to performance improvement initiatives. Her research has been published widely and significantly shapes expectations and guidelines for rectal cancer surgery outcomes.

Beyond her surgical and research achievements, Dr. Temple is a dedicated mentor and leader committed to training future surgical oncology specialists. She plays an active role in professional societies, including chairing the Quality Assessment Committee for the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons and serving on national advisory workgroups with the American College of Surgeons and National Quality Forum. Frequently invited to speak at national and international conferences, she continues to advance the field through her emphasis on patient-centered care, interdisciplinary collaboration, and evidence-based surgical innovations.