Colon surgery Lenox Hill is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of a portion or the entire colon. The colon, which is also known as the large intestine, plays a vital role in the digestive system. It absorbs water from the food waste and passes the solid waste out of the body. Colon surgery may be recommended for various reasons, including colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis, and polyps. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about colon surgery.
TYPES OF COLON SURGERY
There are different types of colon surgery, depending on the specific condition and the severity of the problem. The most common types of colon surgery include:
- Partial Colectomy: This type of surgery involves the removal of a part of the colon. It is usually done to treat conditions such as colon cancer, polyps, and diverticulitis.
- Total Colectomy: This type of surgery involves the complete removal of the colon. It is usually done to treat conditions such as ulcerative colitis and familial adenomatous polyposis.
- Proctocolectomy: This type of surgery involves the removal of both the colon and the rectum. It is usually done to treat conditions such as ulcerative colitis and familial adenomatous polyposis.
PREPARING FOR COLON SURGERY
Before undergoing colon surgery, you will need to prepare yourself both physically and mentally. Your doctor will provide you with specific instructions on how to prepare for the surgery. Some of the common preparation steps include:
- Fasting: You will need to fast for several hours before the surgery to ensure that your stomach is empty.
- Bowel Preparation: You will need to clean your bowel before the surgery to reduce the risk of infection. Your doctor will provide you with specific instructions on how to do this.
- Medications: Your doctor may ask you to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, before the surgery.
- Arrange Transportation: You will need to arrange transportation to and from the hospital on the day of the surgery.
THE COLON SURGERY PROCEDURE
The colon surgery procedure may vary depending on the type of surgery and the specific condition. Generally, the surgery is performed under general anesthesia, which means that you will be asleep during the procedure.
During the surgery, the surgeon will make incisions in the abdomen to access the colon. After removing the affected portion of the colon, the surgeon will reattach the remaining parts of the colon or create a stoma, depending on the type of surgery.
RECOVERY FROM COLON SURGERY
The recovery period after colon surgery may vary depending on the type of surgery and the individual. Generally, you will need to stay in the hospital for a few days after the surgery. During this time, you will be closely monitored by the medical team to ensure that you are healing properly.
After leaving the hospital, you will need to follow specific instructions from your doctor to ensure that you recover properly. Some of the common recovery steps include:
- Pain Management: Your doctor will provide you with medications to manage the pain after the surgery.
- Diet: You will need to follow a specific diet plan to avoid constipation and ensure proper healing.
- Physical Activity: You will need to gradually increase your physical activity to avoid complications and improve healing.
POTENTIAL COMPLICATIONS OF COLON SURGERY
Like any surgery, colon surgery carries some risks and potential complications. Some of the common complications include:
- Infection: The risk of infection is higher after colon surgery.
- Bleeding: There may be some bleeding after the surgery.
- Bowel Obstruction: There may be a blockage in the digestive system after the surgery.
- Stoma Complications: If a stoma is created, there may be some complications such as infection and blockage.
CONCLUSION
Colon surgery is a major surgical procedure that is done to treat various conditions. If you are recommended to undergo colon surgery, it is important to prepare yourself both physically and mentally. Follow the instructions from your doctor carefully, and be patient during the recovery period. With proper care and management, you can recover from colon surgery and resume your normal activities.