Colectomy

A colectomy is a surgical procedure in which all or part of the large intestine, or colon, is removed. It is typically used to treat conditions like colon cancer, inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, and diverticulitis. Before the surgery, the patient will undergo a physical examination and a variety of tests, such as a colonoscopy and blood tests. During the procedure, the surgeon will make an incision in the abdomen and remove the affected portion of the bowel. If the entire colon is removed, the surgeon will then connect the small intestine to the rectum. If only a portion of the colon is removed, the ends of the remaining colon will be connected together. The patient may need to stay in the hospital for a few days after the surgery, depending on the extent of their surgery and their overall health. Pain medication and antibiotics may be prescribed to help manage pain and reduce the risk of infection. The patient will also need to follow a special diet for at least a few weeks following the surgery. This diet is designed to help the body heal and adjust to the changes in the digestive system.