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Colon Removal Surgery
Colon removal or colectomy
Your doctor told you that you will need to have colon removal surgery. This will be a big step for you. Naturally, you have questions and fears about the procedure. This is normal. The key to fear management is knowledge. Make a list of your questions and concerns and meet with your doctor to get answers. Ask about alternative treatments involving diet change or medication. You really should get a second opinion from another doctor.
Going forward with colon removal surgery? If the answer is yes, then there are some things that you should know about.
Significant Knowledge
- As with most surgery, proper nutrition and exercise in the weeks prior to surgery can improve your body's healing ability.
- Before surgery, you must take a laxative to empty your colon or large intestine.
- Colon removal surgery can be traditional "open surgery" or a less invasive technique (laparoscopic surgery) Open surgery will require a 12-inch incision in your abdomen. Yes, there will be a scar.
- You will be given a general anesthetic to make you "sleep" during the surgery.
- Colon surgery times can vary, so ask your doctor how long you will be "under."
- The doctor will remove the parts of your colon containing the diseased tissue.
- When the surgery is complete, you will have a colostomy bag to collect your body waste. The medical care givers will train you how to use and care for the colostomy bag.
- You will need pain medication for several days, maybe longer. Ask your doctor about the merits of intravenous versus epidural delivery of pain medication.
- It generally takes longer to recover from open surgery than it takes for laparoscopic surgery. The recovery time for open surgery could be as long as 8 weeks.
- Hospitalization time will be about 7 days if you have open surgery or 5 days for laparoscopic surgery.
Possible Complications
You are wondering about possible complications. As with most surgeries, possible complications include internal bleeding and infection. Consult your doctor for a complete list of possible complications to a colectomy. Each case is different, so ask about complications that are likely in your case.
Survival Rate
The survival rate after a colectomy is very good. Clinical studies have shown a survival rate of about 86%. Since this is major surgery with serious consequences, you want to make certain you have the best team of doctors with the most experience.
Now you have a list of topics to discuss with your doctor. Ask your questions. Get your answers before proceeding with colon removal surgery. Get peace of mind.
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