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Bowel resection |
| Definition: |
| Bowel resection is surgical removal (resection) of a diseased part of the large intestine (also called the bowel or colon).
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| Alternative Names: |
| Colon resection; Resection of part of large intestine; Colectomy
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| Description: |
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In elective cases, the colon is cleaned before the surgery with enemas and oral agents. Small bowel resection is performed while the patient is under general anesthesia (unconscious and pain-free). An incision is made in the abdomen. The diseased part of the large intestine is removed and the two healthy ends are sewn back together (resected). The abdominal incision is closed. If it is necessary to spare the colon from its normal digestive work while it heals, a temporary opening of the colon through the abdominal wall (colostomy) may be created. The proximal proximal (nearer to the small intestine) end of the healthy bowel tissue is then passed through the abdominal wall, and the edges are stitched to the skin of the abdominal wall. An adhesive drainage bag (stoma appliance) is placed around the opening. In most cases, depending on the disease process being treated, the colostomy is temporary and can be closed with another operation at a later date. If a large portion of the bowel is removed, the colostomy may be permanent. The large intestine absorbs a significant amount of water from digested food. When the colon is bypassed by a colostomy, the patient should expect loose or liquid stool (feces) from the colostomy. Careful skin care and a well-fitting colostomy bag are necessary to reduce skin irritation around the colostomy. |
| Indications: |
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Large bowel (colon) resection is recommended for a variety of disease processes. The most common reasons include the following:
Other reasons to perform bowel resection include the following:
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| Risks: |
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Risks for any anesthesia include the following:
Risks for any surgery include the following:
Additional risks include the following:
Some cases may result in the permanent need for a colostomy bag. |
| Expectations after surgery: |
| The outcome depends on the disease. Most patients have a good outcome with relief of symptoms. |
| Convalescence: |
| Most patients will stay in the hospital for 5 to 7 days. Complete recovery from surgery may take 2 months. During the first few days after surgery, eating is restricted. |
Reviewed By: Hebe Molmenti, M.D., Ph.D., Private Practice specializing in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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