Colectomy
Colectomy is large bowel resection.
- The goal of this surgery is to remove diseased sections of your large bowel. The large bowel is also known as the large intestine or the colon.
- The procedure, your surgeon removes the diseased parts of your bowel and then reconnects the healthy parts. Your surgeon may remove all or part of your bowel. Your surgeon may perform a colostomy if there’s not enough healthy intestine after surgery.
- During a colostomy, your surgeon moves one end of your large intestine to the outside of your abdominal wall and attaches a colostomy bag to your abdomen. When stool passes through your large intestine, it drains into the bag. The stool that goes into the bag is usually soft or liquid. A colostomy is often temporary. You’ll have the bag until your intestines heal. During a new operation, your surgeon can then remove the colostomy. In some cases, however, the colostomy is permanent.
Preparation for a large bowel resection; At least two weeks before surgery, tell your doctor about all the medications you’re taking. You should include supplements such as vitamins and herbs. You should also inform them about any recent illnesses including any colds, flus, or herpes breakouts. Before surgery, your doctor may need you to: stop taking blood-thinning drugs, such as aspirin (Bufferin), ibuprofen (Advil), naproxen (Aleve), or warfarin (Coumadin)-stop smoking-drink plenty of water-eat foods high in fiber
After a large bowel resection You’ll generally stay in the hospital for 5-10 days. You may need to stay in the hospital longer if you develop complications. You may also need to stay longer if you have a more serious underlying health problem. You’ll have to follow specific instructions about how to eat after your surgery. You’re generally able to drink clear liquids by the second or third day. As you heal, you’ll be able to drink thicker fluids and eat soft foods.