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Colon Surgery Q&A

What is colon surgery?

Colon surgery, also called colectomy, refers to procedures that remove some or all of your colon. Your colon, also called the large intestine, is the last part of your gastrointestinal tract. Its primary function is to absorb water and nutrients from food waste before you eliminate it from your body.

A number of conditions affect the colon, impairing its normal function. When medical interventions fail to improve colon health, you may need colon surgery.

Who needs colon surgery?

Your surgeon at Sierra Pacific Surgical, along with your other health care providers, decides when you need colon surgery. The team performs surgery on the colon to treat many conditions and diseases, including:

  • Colon cancer
  • Diverticulitis
  • Large colon polyps
  • Colon strictures
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
  • Ulcerations
  • Fecal impaction

If you’re in need of a skilled surgeon to improve your colon health, the team at Sierra Pacific Surgical can help.

What are the types of colon surgery?

Among different types of colon surgeries, the one you need depends on your diagnosis and may include:

 

Total colectomy

During a total colectomy, your surgeon removes your entire colon.

 

Partial colectomy

For a partial colectomy, your surgeon removes only a portion of your colon.

 

Hemicolectomy

During a hemicolectomy, the surgeon removes one side of your colon, either the descending or ascending colon. 

 

Proctocolectomy

During a proctocolectomy, your surgeon removes all of your colon and some or all of your rectum.

When performing colon surgery, the team uses minimally invasive robotic surgery whenever possible. This advanced surgical technique allows your surgeon to perform complex procedures with greater flexibility and precision.

What happens after colon surgery?

At your pre-surgical consultation, the Sierra Pacific Surgical team discusses what you can expect after your colon surgery. Some people may go home the same day, while others need to spend a few days at the hospital.

Full recovery from colon surgery takes about a month, but you may start feeling like your usual self within a week. The team requests you avoid foods high in fiber following colon surgery to allow the colon to rest and heal properly. 

The team at Sierra Pacific Surgical schedules a follow-up visit to monitor you and your healing and adjust your plan as needed.

For expert colon surgery care from a skilled and compassionate team, call Sierra Pacific Surgical or book an appointment online today.