What happens if you have to have part of your colon removed?
In some cases, after the surgeon removes a portion of the colon, it may be necessary to attach the remaining colon to the outside of the body in a procedure called colostomy. Creating a hole (stoma) in the abdominal wall allows waste to leave the body. A colostomy bag attaches to the stoma to collect the waste.
How much of your colon can be removed and still function?
Usually, about one-fourth to one-third of the colon is removed, depending on the size and location of the cancer. The remaining sections of colon are then reattached. At least 12 nearby lymph nodes are also removed so they can be checked for cancer. If all of the colon is removed, it’s called a total colectomy.
How serious is removing part of your colon?
Injury: During the procedure, the intestines, bladder, or blood vessels near the bowels may become damaged. Leakage: If the resection doesn’t heal properly or becomes infected, the colon can leak. Doctors call this an anastomotic leak. It can lead to bleeding and a dangerous infection.
Do you need a colostomy bag after colon removal?
Colon cancer survivors can lead an active lifestyle after surgery, and most can avoid the need for a colostomy bag with an advanced surgical procedure offered at UT Southwestern. In young adults – those in their 20s to 40s – the rate of colorectal cancer is increasing.
What is the name of the procedure to remove the right side of the colon?
During your colectomy. Right hemicolectomy A colectomy procedure to remove one side of the colon is called hemicolectomy. A right hemicolectomy, as shown here, involves removing the right side of the colon and attaching the small intestine to the remaining portion of the colon.
What kind of colectomy do you need for a blocked colon?
Bowel obstruction. A blocked colon is an emergency that may require total or partial colectomy, depending on the situation.
When to have a colon and rectum removed?
Your doctor may recommend a proctocolectomy if your colon and your rectum (together known as the large intestine) are diseased and must be removed. There are variations of this procedure, but patients with Crohn’s disease are generally recommended for a proctocolectomy with end ileostomy.