Colectomy Postsurgical Complications

Also known as a colon resection, a colectomy surgery involves removing part of the colon because of the presence of symptomatic polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, or cancers of the colon and rectum. A colectomy can be performed using one of two surgical approaches: open surgery, which requires a long incision down the middle of the abdomen; or laparoscopic surgery, which uses small incisions called ports through which surgical instruments are inserted. While the laparoscopic approach can result in a faster recovery time, both approaches share the same risks, according to the University of Chicago Medical Center.

Bleeding

• It is possible for the surgeon to nick or perforate a portion of the small intestine, which can result in internal bleeding. Because bleeding can cause further complications, such as infection and organ malfunction, it is important to correct the perforation as quickly as possible.

Infection

• When the body's inner tissues are exposed to air, the possibility increases for harmful bacteria entering the body. While intravenous antibiotics are typically given during surgery, it is possible for infection to occur. Signs of infection include drainage from the surgical site, redness, swelling, fever and fatigue. If left untreated, the infection can cause serious symptoms, such as organ failure, so it is important to seek medical assistance.

Intestinal Leakage

• When a portion of the colon is removed, the remaining sections are sewn together to ensure seamless travel through the bowels. Because of low immunity conditions---such as diabetes and heart disease---the area where the intestines meet may not fully heal, which can cause intestinal leakage. This leakage can flow back into the abdomen, which can cause nausea, vomiting, fever and other symptoms.

Organ Injury

• It is possible to nick or cut other organs near the colon, such as the small intestine, ureter or bladder. While these effects are most often detected during the surgery, it is possible that a small injury can go undetected. Medical attention should be sought if a patient experiences symptoms such as abdominal cramping, difficulty urinating or experiencing a bowel movement, abdominal swelling and fever.

Blood Clots

• Blood clots are a common post-surgery complication and can form because of poor circulation or limited movement after surgery. Also, blood can build up around the surgical site, causing bruising. Patients should either take blood thinners following surgery or wear circulation hose to boost circulation in the legs, where clots most commonly occur. If these clots do form in the legs, they can break off and cause more serious complications, such as a pulmonary embolism that can have deadly effects.