Colectomy

Right hemicolectomy

Right extended hemicolectomy

Left hemicolectomy

Extended left hemicolectomy

Transverse colectomy

Colectomy is a surgical procedure involving the removal of all or part of the colon (large intestine). It is performed to treat or prevent diseases and conditions that affect the colon. The extent and type of colectomy depend on the nature of the disease, the part of the colon affected, and the patient's overall health.

Types of Colectomy

There are several types of colectomy surgeries, including:

• Total Colectomy - removal of the entire colon.
• Partial Colectomy (also known as Segmental Resection) - removal of part of the colon.
• Hemicolectomy - removal of the right or left portion of the colon.
• Proctocolectomy - removal of both the colon and the rectum, often including the creation of an ileostomy or ileo-anal pouch.

Indications

Colectomy may be indicated for various conditions, such as:

• Colorectal Cancer - when tumors are present in the colon.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) - including Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis, especially when not responsive to medication.
• Diverticulitis - inflammation or infection of small pouches that can form in the colon walls.
• Intestinal Obstruction - caused by scar tissue or tumors.
• Precancerous Polyps - when there is a high risk of them developing into cancer.

Procedure

The procedure can be performed using open surgery or laparoscopically, with the latter being less invasive and often associated with quicker recovery times. The choice of technique depends on the specific case and the surgeon's expertise.

• Open Colectomy involves a single, long incision in the abdomen to access the colon.
• Laparoscopic Colectomy uses several small incisions through which surgical tools and a camera are inserted to perform the surgery.

Recovery

Recovery from a colectomy varies depending on the type of surgery, the patient's overall health, and any complications that may arise. Hospital stays can range from a few days to a week or more, with full recovery taking several weeks to months. Patients may need to adjust their diet and activity levels during recovery and will require follow-up care to monitor their health.

Complications

As with any surgery, colectomy carries risks of complications, such as:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Blood clots
• Hernia at the incision site
• Leakage from the reconnected parts of the intestines

Conclusion

Colectomy is a significant surgical procedure with potential risks and benefits. It is often a life-saving operation for individuals with serious colon diseases. Decisions regarding colectomy should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, considering the individual's specific medical condition and overall health.