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Colon surgery involves removing part or all of the colon to treat conditions such as colon cancer and diverticulitis. Depending on the condition, the procedure may be performed using minimally invasive techniques, such as robotic surgery. Learning more about this surgery helps patients prepare for the process. Here is more information on colon surgery, what to expect from it, and the benefits:
What Is Colon Surgery?
Colon surgery, also known as a colectomy, is a medical procedure to remove all or part of the colon. The colon can be affected by various conditions that necessitate its removal, and surgery is an effective treatment. This procedure is performed to address issues such as colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and diverticulitis.
The extent of the surgery depends on the medical condition being treated, so the amount of the colon removed varies. In some cases, only a small section is taken out, while in others, the entire colon is removed. Your surgeon will determine the appropriate approach based on your diagnosis and discuss the details with you before the procedure.
How Does It Work?
There are two primary methods for performing colon surgery: open and laparoscopic. Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive technique where the surgeon makes several small incisions. A small camera called a laparoscope is inserted through one incision, displaying images on a monitor, and the surgeon uses special instruments through the other incisions to perform the operation. This method may result in a shorter hospital stay and a quicker recovery time.
What Does the Process Involve?
Preparation for colon surgery begins days before the procedure, and it typically involves cleansing your colon. Your medical team will provide specific instructions, which may include a special diet and laxatives. On the day of the surgery, you will be admitted to the hospital and prepared for the operating room. Consulting a specialist will help you learn what to expect from the process.
What Is Recovery Like?
Your recovery will begin in the hospital, where you will typically stay for several days, and the medical staff will manage your pain and monitor your progress. You will gradually be reintroduced to food, starting with clear liquids and advancing to solid foods as your digestive system recovers. Getting up and walking is encouraged soon after surgery to promote healing and prevent complications.
Once you return home, your recovery will continue for several weeks, and you will have specific instructions to follow regarding diet and physical activity. You will need to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for a period recommended by your surgeon, but light activities like walking are beneficial. Following your surgeon’s guidance is key to a smooth recovery process.
What Are the Benefits?
The primary benefit of colon surgery is the treatment or resolution of the underlying medical condition. For individuals with colon cancer, the surgery can remove the tumor and prevent the disease from spreading, and this is often a valuable part of the treatment plan. The procedure can improve quality of life and long-term health outcomes.
For those with inflammatory bowel disease or diverticulitis, removing the diseased portion of the colon helps alleviate chronic symptoms like pain, bleeding, and blockages. This can lead to improved daily comfort and overall well-being. The surgery addresses the source of the problem, offering a long-term solution.
Know What To Expect
Understanding the colon surgery process helps manage expectations. Discuss the surgery with your healthcare provider to receive personalized details about your potential outcomes. This allows you to ask targeted questions and take an active role in your care, which helps facilitate a successful surgical outcome.
