Treatment

Resection Surgery

Overview

Resection Surgery is a medical procedure where a damaged, diseased or cancerous part of an organ (like the intestines or colon) is surgically removed. This surgery is commonly used to treat conditions like colon cancer, bowel obstruction, Crohn’s disease, diverticulitis or dead/infected sections of the intestine. It helps restore normal digestion and prevent further health complications. Depending on the condition, parts such as the small bowel, terminal ileum, large bowel, or sigmoid colon may be removed through procedures like colectomy, hemicolectomy, or ileocecectomy.

Why Resection Surgery Treatment is Required?

• To remove cancerous tumors from the colon, small bowel or large intestine
• To treat intestinal obstruction or blocked bowels
• To manage complications of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
• To eliminate severely infected or damaged bowel segments
• To stop bleeding from dead colon or internal injury
• To improve life quality in patients with recurring abdominal pain or digestive problems
• As a life-saving measure in emergency cases like twisted colon or perforation

Key Advantages of Resection Surgery Treatment

• Removes the root cause of serious health problems like colon cancer or intestinal blockage
• Prevents complications such as bowel rupture or severe infection
• Restores normal bowel function and digestion
• Reduces pain, bloating and discomfort from diseased intestines
• Improves long-term survival and life expectancy
• Often performed using laparoscopic colectomy, which reduces recovery time and scarring
• Allows for bowel reconstruction, avoiding permanent colostomy in many cases

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Resection Surgery Treatment

• Follow a low-residue or liquid diet as advised by your doctor
• Stop certain medications like blood thinners before surgery
• Complete pre-surgery tests like colonoscopy, CT scan, or blood tests
• Arrange for post-surgery care and assistance at home
• Inform the surgeon about all existing medical conditions and past surgeries
• Stay hydrated and avoid eating 8 hours before surgery

How Resection Surgery Treatment is Performed?

• The patient is given general anesthesia.
• Surgeons make an incision or use small instruments in laparoscopic surgery.
• The affected portion of the bowel is carefully cut and removed for example partial colectomy, subtotal colectomy, or enterectomy.
• The healthy ends of the bowel are reconnected (called anastomosis).
• In some cases, a temporary colostomy may be needed to allow healing.
• The wound is closed, and the patient is monitored in recovery.

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

• Before Procedure:
• Fasting and bowel preparation
• Admission a day before or same day
• Anesthesia discussion with the medical team
• During Procedure:
• Surgery lasts 2 to 4 hours depending on the complexity
• Performed using open or minimally invasive technique
• After Procedure:
• Initial recovery in hospital (usually 3–7 days)
• Gradual return to normal diet and activities
• Pain, bloating and fatigue are common in the early days
• Close monitoring for signs of infection or internal bleeding

Risk and Potential Complications

• Infection at the surgical site or inside the abdomen
• Internal bleeding or blood clots
• Leakage at the site where the bowel was reconnected
• Bowel obstruction from scar tissue
• Long-term issues like diarrhea, constipation, or altered digestion
• Short bowel syndrome if a large portion was removed
• Rarely, need for additional surgeries or permanent stoma

Results/Outcomes

• Most patients recover well and experience major relief from symptoms
• Good long-term outcomes, especially after tumor removal or bowel reconstruction
• Life expectancy after colon removal depends on the underlying cause and recovery
• Many patients return to regular routines within 4 to 6 weeks
• Improved digestion, fewer symptoms and enhanced quality of life