COLECTOMY
A colectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove part or all of the colon (large intestine) when it is damaged by disease or other serious conditions. A partial colectomy removes only the affected section of the colon, while a total colectomy removes the entire colon.
This surgery helps restore bowel function, relieve symptoms, and in some cases, prevent life-threatening complications.
What Is a Colectomy?
A colectomy is surgery to remove diseased or damaged portions of the colon. It is recommended when the colon cannot function properly due to inflammation, blockage, bleeding, or cance
Conditions Treated with Colectomy
Colon cancer
Diverticulitis
Gastrointestinal bleeding
Large bowel obstruction
Severe inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Preventive surgery for inherited conditions such as Lynch syndrome or Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP)
Types of Colectomy
Total Colectomy – Removal of the entire colon
Partial Colectomy – Removal of a specific section of the colon
Hemicolectomy – Removes one side of the colon
Sigmoid Colectomy (Sigmoidectomy) – Removes the sigmoid colon
Proctosigmoidectomy – Removes the sigmoid colon and part of the rectum
Proctocolectomy – Removes both the colon and rectum
Preparation for Colectomy
Before surgery, patients may undergo:
Blood tests
Colonoscopy
ECG (EKG)
CT scan or MRI
General preparation includes:
Clear liquid diet before surgery
Bowel cleansing (bowel prep)
Fasting from midnight before surgery
Arranging assistance for discharge and recovery
During the Procedure
Performed under general anesthesia
Done as open surgery, laparoscopic, or robotic-assisted surgery
Diseased section of the colon is removed
Healthy ends of the colon may be reconnected (anastomosis)
If reconnection isn’t possible, a colostomy or ileostomy may be created
Surgery duration: 1 to 4 hours
Anastomosis vs Ostomy
Anastomosis: Rejoining healthy bowel sections to allow normal bowel movement
Ostomy: Creating an opening in the abdomen for waste removal when reconnection isn’t possible
When to Contact the Doctor
Increasing abdominal pain
Fever or signs of infection
Persistent constipation or inability to pass stool
Redness, swelling, or discharge at the incision site
Procedure Summary
| Procedure Name | Colectomy |
|---|---|
| Type of Surgery | Gastrointestinal Surgery |
| Anesthesia | General |
| Duration | 1–4 hours |
| Hospital Stay | 3–7 days |
| Recovery Time | Up to 6 weeks |