Colectomy Surgery

Overview

A colectomy is a surgical procedure to remove a portion or all of the colon, also known as the large intestine. The colon is responsible for transporting undigested food from the small intestine to the rectum for expulsion from the body. A colectomy may be recommended for various conditions, including:

Colon cancer
Bowel obstructions or blockages
Diverticulitis
Infections or bleeding
Crohn’s disease
Precancerous polyps
Genetic mutations associated with colon cancer risk
Ulcerative colitis
Volvulus (twisted intestines)
Intussusception (folding of the intestine into itself)

Alternate Name

Bowel Resection

Body Location

Large Intestine

Types of Colectomy Procedures

Open Surgery
- The surgeon makes a large incision in the abdomen to assess and remove the affected part of the colon.
Laparoscopic Surgery
- A minimally invasive approach where small incisions are made, and a camera is used to guide the surgical instruments.

Preparing for Colectomy Surgery

Before undergoing a colectomy, you may need to:

Discontinue Certain Medications: Some medications may increase the risk of complications and must be temporarily stopped.
Fast: Abstain from food for several hours before the procedure as instructed by your doctor.
Take a Laxative: A laxative or enema may be prescribed to clear the bowel of any remaining waste.
Take Antibiotics: Preventive antibiotics may be recommended to reduce the risk of infections caused by intestinal bacteria.

The Colectomy Procedure

The surgeon removes the affected part of the colon and may also excise nearby lymph nodes to ensure complete treatment. The remaining sections of the intestine are joined together if enough healthy tissue remains.

If a total colectomy is performed:

The entire colon is removed, and the small intestine is connected to an external opening in the abdomen (colostomy) to allow waste expulsion into a colostomy bag.
The colostomy may be temporary or permanent, depending on the case.

If the rectum is also removed, the small intestine may be connected directly to the anus, avoiding the need for a colostomy.

Recovery After Colectomy

Recovery duration depends on the extent of the surgery. Common aspects of recovery include:

Wound Care: Proper attention to surgical incisions to avoid infections.
Follow-Up Visits: Regular check-ups to monitor healing and prevent complications.
Dietary Adjustments: Starting with a liquid diet before transitioning to solids.
Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities during recovery.

Follow-Up Care

Hospital Stay: Typically 5-7 days for monitoring and pain management.
Medications: Adherence to prescribed medications, including painkillers and antibiotics, to support recovery.
Diet and Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids and eating a balanced diet to promote bowel health.
Constipation Management: Over-the-counter remedies or dietary changes as advised by your doctor.

Additional Considerations

It is essential to have someone assist with daily tasks during the initial recovery phase. Any unusual symptoms, such as persistent pain, fever, redness around the incision, or difficulty in bowel movements, should be promptly reported to your healthcare provider.

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