Your colon is a significant organ as it helps remove waste and toxins from your body. Before colon surgery, you should know a few things to help the process go smoothly. Colon surgery at Lenox Hill Surgeons LLP entails removing a portion of the large intestine, commonly known as the colon.
What happens during your doctor’s consultation?
During your consultation, your doctor will ask questions about your medical history and lifestyle to determine if you are a good candidate for surgery. They may also perform tests or scans to assess the condition of the colon. Your doctor will explain the procedure’s risks, benefits, and alternatives so that you can make an informed decision.
What happens before colon surgery?
Before the procedure, you will need to undergo certain tests, such as blood tests, a physical exam, and an EKG. Additionally, your doctor may have you drink a special solution to clean out your large intestine before surgery. On the day of the procedure, you will be asked to fast for eight hours prior.
What happens during colon surgery?
The procedure usually takes two to four hours and is performed under general anesthesia. During the surgery, your surgeon will make an incision in your abdomen and remove part or all of your large intestine.
In some cases, they may perform a colostomy, which involves diverting waste away from the colon and out of the body through a small opening in the abdomen.
What happens after colon surgery?
After your procedure, you will be taken to a recovery room, where your vital signs and pain levels will be monitored. You may also receive antibiotics to help prevent infection. You can expect soreness and discomfort for several weeks following the surgery, but your doctor can prescribe medications to help manage the pain. You may also need to make lifestyle changes, such as eating a high-fiber diet and drinking plenty of fluids, to promote healing.
Your recovery after colon surgery will depend on the type of procedure you had and the severity of your condition. Your doctor can provide more information about what to expect after the surgery. With proper care, you can fully recover and have a healthier colon. It is advisable to follow your doctor’s instructions closely during this time.
Situations that call for colon surgery
Below are some of the situations a doctor may recommend colon surgery:
- Severe polyps: Large polyps can cause bleeding or blockage of the colon. Colon surgery is sometimes needed to remove the polyps and prevent further complications.
- Inflammatory bowel disease: Surgery may be recommended to treat inflammation in the large intestine that is causing pain, severe diarrhea, and other symptoms.
- Colon cancer: In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove cancerous tissue from the colon.
- Diverticulitis: This condition causes small pouches in the intestine to become inflamed or infected. Surgery is typically used when antibiotics are not able to treat the infection.
- Rectal prolapse: Colon surgery is sometimes recommended for rectal prolapse, a condition in which the rectum becomes displaced and may protrude from the anus.
Don’t hesitate to ask your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about your condition. The doctor can provide you with more information about colon surgery and how it can help you.