A colon resection, also known as a colectomy, is a surgical procedure that our surgeon, Aliu O. Sanni, MD, at Eastside Bariatric & General Surgery has the expertise to perform. During your consultation and in addition to an evaluation, he can determine if the procedure is right for you.
To perform a colon resection, Dr. Sanni removes part or all of a diseased or damaged portion of your colon (large intestine). He then reconnects the healthy ends of your colon (anastomosis) to restore bowel function.
The treatment is often a last resort for addressing severe colon-related issues that can’t be effectively managed with less invasive options.
Some common reasons why you may need a colon resection include:
One of the most common reasons for a colon resection is colon cancer. If a tumor develops in your colon, removing the affected portion can prevent the spread of cancer and improve survival rates.
This procedure is often accompanied by chemotherapy or radiation therapy, depending on the cancer’s stage.
This condition occurs when small pouches (diverticula) in your colon wall become inflamed or infected. Chronic or severe cases, especially those that lead to complications like abscesses, fistulas, or perforations, may require surgery to remove the damaged section of your colon.
Conditions such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can cause severe inflammation and damage to your colon. In cases where symptoms are unmanageable or there’s a risk of complications like strictures, blockages, or cancer, a colon resection may be necessary.
A blockage in the colon caused by scar tissue, tumors, or other conditions can lead to life-threatening complications. If nonsurgical means can’t relieve the obstruction, surgery to remove the affected area is a must.
Severe injuries to the abdomen from accidents or surgeries can damage your colon. In some cases, Dr. Sanni may need to resect the damaged section to ensure proper healing and prevent infection.
This condition occurs when blood flow to your colon is reduced, usually because of narrowed or blocked blood vessels. Severe cases can cause tissue death, requiring surgical removal of the affected section.
Dr. Sanni can perform a colon resection through open surgery or minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopic surgery or robotic surgery. Recovery times vary but often require a hospital stay of several days and weeks of at-home care to allow your digestive system to adjust.
While the prospect of a colon resection can be daunting, it’s often a life-saving procedure. If Dr. Sanni recommends this surgery, it’s likely because the benefits outweigh the risks. Discuss all your concerns and options with him to ensure the best outcome for your health.
Book an appointment today at our office in Snellville, Georgia, to learn more.
