Sigmoid Colectomy Procedures

Colectomy is a term used to describe surgical removal of part or all of the colon, which is the main component of the large intestine. The technique is also known as bowel resection. When colectomy is performed on the sigmoid colon---the final section of the colon before the rectum and anus---the procedure is called a sigmoid colectomy.

Prior to Surgery

• According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, you may receive a colectomy to treat a number of ailments, including colon cancer, ulcerative colitis, intestinal blocks caused by scar tissue, traumatic bowel injuries and precancerous nodules (polyps). Colectomy is a major procedure, and before your surgery you will need to make a number of preparations. Beginning 14 days prior to treatment, you may need to suspend the use of any medication with anti-blood clotting properties such as naproxen, ibuprofen, aspirin or stronger prescription compounds. You may also need to quit smoking temporarily and follow a high-fiber diet. In addition, you may be asked to increase your water consumption.

  On the day before surgery, you will need to eat lightly and restrict your fluid intake to clear liquids. In the hours just prior to your colectomy, you will need to suspend all liquid consumption. Your doctor may also administer laxatives or an enema to make sure your colon is free of fecal matter.

Surgery

• Your sigmoid colectomy may be performed as either a conventional open surgery or as a minimally invasive procedure called a laparoscopy, which involves the use of a tiny camera inserted into your colon to guide your surgeon's actions. Benefits of a laparoscopic procedure include reduced healing time after surgery and a shorter hospital stay. During surgery, your sigmoid colon will be cut at both ends and removed. If you are being treated for cancer, lymph nodes associated with the sigmoid colon will also be removed. Your surgeon will then reconnect the remaining section of your colon to your rectum. Typically, colectomy surgery lasts anywhere from one to three hours.

Potential Complications and Recovery

• Potential complications of a sigmoid colectomy include infection, internal bleeding, bulging of tissue through your surgical incision, colon blockage due to the formation of scar tissue, and incomplete joining of the reattached sections of your colon and rectum. Typically, you will need to stay in the hospital for several days while your bowels adjust to surgery and begin to function. For a short time, you will be restricted to a diet of clear liquids, after which you will be given heavier fluids and soft food.

  For the first year after surgery, you may experience an increased number of bowel movements that may also be more watery than those you had prior to surgery. Typically, your bowels will begin to normalize after a year of so. The long-term outlook for your health after sigmoid colectomy depends on the underlying condition that led to surgery. Consult your doctor for a full explanation of the ongoing care and potential outcomes in your case.