A colectomy is a surgical procedure to remove part or all of the colon (large intestine).
This procedure is performed to treat conditions such as colon cancer, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, or bowel obstruction.
After the resection, the intestine is reconnected, or a temporary or permanent opening (colostomy) is created to allow waste to drain.
The procedure can be performed either through open surgery or laparoscopically, and recovery depends on the type of surgery and the patient's overall health.
1. Muscle spasms in the intestines, manifesting as abdominal cramps, gas, and diarrhea, can cause sluggish bowel movements, resulting in hard, dry stools.
2. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be caused by problems in the nervous system, leading to changes in the body that result in inflammation.
3. Changes in the digestive tract, such as bacterial infections, can also contribute.
4. Intestinal inflammation and severe infections can lead to IBS.
5. IBS can lead to complications, including anxiety and depression, as well as chronic diarrhea or constipation, which may cause hemorrhoids.
We also use colon resection to treat and prevent diseases and conditions affecting the colon, such as:
1. Uncontrolled bleeding. Severe bleeding from the colon may require surgery to remove the affected part.
2. Bowel obstruction. A bowel obstruction is an emergency that may require partial or complete removal of the colon, depending on the case.
3. Colon cancer. Early-stage cancers may require the removal of a small portion of the colon during a colectomy. Later-stage cancers may require the removal of more of the colon.
4. Crohn's disease. If medications are ineffective, removing the affected part of the colon may temporarily relieve signs and symptoms. A colectomy may also be an option if precancerous changes are found during a colonoscopy.
5. Ulcerative colitis. Your doctor may recommend a complete colectomy if medications are ineffective in controlling your signs and symptoms. A colectomy may also be an option if precancerous changes are found during a colonoscopy.
6. Diverticulitis. Your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the affected part of the colon if you experience recurrent diverticulitis or if you have complications from diverticulitis.
Preventive surgery. If you are at high risk of developing colon cancer due to having many precancerous colon polyps, you may choose to have a total colectomy to prevent future cancer. A colectomy may also be an option for people with inherited genetic conditions that increase their risk of colon cancer, such as familial adenomatous polyposis or Lynch syndrome.
1. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with constipation
2. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with diarrhea
3. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with both constipation and diarrhea
There are several types of colectomy:
*Total colectomy involves the removal of the entire colon.
*Partial colectomy involves the removal of part of the colon; it can also be called an incomplete colectomy.
*Hemicolectomy involves the removal of either the right or left side of the colon.
*Proctectomy involves the removal of both the colon and the rectum.
*Stop taking certain medications. Some medications can increase the risk of complications during surgery, so your doctor may ask you to stop taking them before surgery.
*Fast before surgery. Your doctor will give you specific instructions. You may be asked to refrain from eating and drinking for several hours to a day before the procedure.
*Drink a laxative solution. Your doctor may prescribe a laxative solution to mix with water at home. You will drink the solution over several hours, following the instructions. The solution causes diarrhea to help empty your colon. Your doctor may also recommend enemas.
*Take antibiotics. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to suppress the bacteria that are naturally present in your colon and to help prevent infection.
Preparing for a colectomy is not always possible. For example, if you need to have an emergency colectomy because of a bowel obstruction or perforation, there may not be time to prepare.