Large intestine surgery, also known as colon surgery, is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of a part or the entire colon.

It is done to treat a variety of conditions including colon cancer, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, diverticulitis, and diverticulosis. This article will explore the different types of large intestine surgeries, their risks, and what to expect during and after the surgery.

Types of Large Intestine Surgeries

There are several types of large intestine surgeries, each with its own set of risks and benefits. Some common types of large intestine surgeries include:.

Colectomy

A colectomy is the removal of a part or the entire colon. The type of colectomy depends on the reason for the surgery. If it’s for colon cancer, the surgeon may remove the entire colon and rectum and create a new opening for waste to leave the body.

If it’s for other reasons, only a part of the colon may be removed.

Colostomy

A colostomy involves creating an opening in the abdominal wall to allow waste to leave the body. The end of the colon is brought through the opening and attached to the skin. A pouch is then attached to the outside of the body to collect waste.

This procedure may be temporary or permanent, depending on the reason for the surgery.

Ileostomy

An ileostomy is similar to a colostomy, except that the opening is made from the small intestine rather than the colon. This procedure may also be temporary or permanent.

Intestinal Resection

An intestinal resection is the removal of a portion of the intestine. It is done to treat conditions such as Crohn’s disease, diverticulitis, or bowel obstructions. The remaining ends of the intestine are then reconnected.

Risks of Large Intestine Surgery

As with any surgery, large intestine surgery comes with its own set of risks. Some common risks include:.

Bleeding
Infection
Bowel obstruction
Leaking of stool or digestive fluids
Adverse reactions to anesthesia or other medications
Formation of scar tissue

Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you before the surgery and do their best to minimize them.

Preparing for Large Intestine Surgery

Before your surgery, your surgeon will give you specific instructions on what to do to prepare. This may include:.

Stopping medications that may interfere with the surgery
Following a special diet to clean out your colon
Stopping smoking
Arranging for someone to drive you home after the surgery

You will also have a pre-surgical consultation to discuss the details of the surgery and any questions or concerns you may have.

What to Expect During Large Intestine Surgery

Large intestine surgery is typically done under general anesthesia, which means you will be asleep during the procedure. During the surgery, the surgeon will make an incision in your abdomen to access the colon.

The surgeon will remove the affected part of the colon and any necessary nearby tissues or lymph nodes.

If you have a colostomy or ileostomy, the surgeon will create the opening in your abdominal wall from which waste will leave your body. The surgeon will also attach the pouch to collect the waste.

After the surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room where you will be monitored as you wake up from the anesthesia. When you are stable, you will be moved to a hospital room.

Recovering from Large Intestine Surgery

Recovery time after large intestine surgery varies depending on the type of surgery and the individual. You may spend a few days in the hospital or up to a week, depending on the extent of your surgery.

During your recovery, you may experience some pain and discomfort, especially around the incision site. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help manage this. You may also have a catheter or drains to help remove excess fluids from your body.

You will also need to follow a special diet and care for your stoma, if you have a colostomy or ileostomy. Your surgeon and nursing staff will provide instructions on how to care for your stoma and how to manage your diet.

It will take several weeks or even months to fully recover from large intestine surgery. During this time, you will need to gradually increase your activity levels and follow your surgeon’s instructions for resuming normal activities.

Conclusion

Large intestine surgery is a serious operation that carries certain risks. However, it can be a life-saving procedure for those with conditions such as colon cancer, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, diverticulitis, and diverticulosis.

If you are considering large intestine surgery, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor and follow their instructions for preparing for and recovering from the surgery.