Colon surgery, also known as colorectal surgery, involves medical procedures performed on the large intestine to address various healthcare conditions. These surgeries serve a range of purposes, from treating certain medical disorders to enhancing a patient’s quality of life. Understanding the different types of colon surgeries and the reasons for them can help patients prepare for discussions with healthcare providers and better comprehend treatment options.
Conditions That Colon Surgery Treats
Colon surgery is performed to address various medical conditions affecting the large intestine, rectum, or anus. Here are some common conditions that may require surgical intervention:
- Colon Cancer: Colon surgery may be performed as part of a treatment plan for patients diagnosed with colon cancer. Removing cancerous sections of the colon can prevent the spread of malignant cells and promote recovery.
- Diverticulitis: Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches in the colon lining, known as diverticula, become inflamed or infected. Chronic or severe cases of this condition might require surgery to remove the affected segment.
- Ulcerative Colitis: Ulcerative colitis results in long-term inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the colon. When medications cannot control the condition, surgeons may remove all or part of the colon to alleviate symptoms.
- Intestinal Obstructions: Blockages in the intestines may prevent food or stool from moving through the digestive tract. Colorectal surgeons might perform procedures to clear these blockages and restore bowel function.
- Difficult Polyps: While many colon polyps are removed during colonoscopies, some larger or harder-to-reach polyps may need to be surgically removed to prevent them from becoming cancerous.
Common Colon Surgeries
Each of the above conditions has specific surgical techniques and approaches that healthcare providers may recommend. Below are some common types of colon surgeries and their purposes:
- Colectomy: A colectomy involves the partial or total removal of the colon. Surgeons may remove only the diseased section of the colon while preserving the healthy parts. Total removal is often recommended for severe inflammation or disease affecting the entire large intestine.
- Colostomy: A colostomy reroutes the colon to an opening in the abdominal wall to create a stoma. It is commonly performed when the digestive system requires time to heal or severe damage makes natural bowel movements difficult.
- Polypectomy: Polypectomy is the removal of polyps during a colonoscopy. When polyps are too large or inaccessible to be removed endoscopically, surgical intervention might be necessary. This procedure enables surgeons to remove pre-cancerous polyps before they become dangerous.
- Proctocolectomy: This surgery is often used to treat ulcerative colitis or familial adenomatous polyposis. It involves removing the colon and rectum. The pouch is then connected to the anus to allow for natural bowel movements.
Choosing the Right Surgeon for You
Selecting a qualified and experienced surgeon is integral when facing a diagnosis that may require colon surgery. Begin by consulting with your primary healthcare provider to understand your condition and discuss possible referrals to specialists. Look for board-certified colorectal surgeons with expertise in the type of procedure you may need. Many medical centers and surgeons provide consultations to clarify patient concerns.
