Why Would I Need Colon Resection Surgery?

Colon resection surgery is a common surgery used to remove part (or all) of your colon and reconnect the healthy remaining tissue. So who is a candidate for a colectomy? There are numerous reasons you might need one. 

See David Schumacher, MD, FACS, FASMBS, at Ohio Bariatrics and Laparoscopy in Springboro, Ohio, if you have signs of gastrointestinal problems to learn if colon resection surgery is right for you.

Conditions colon resection surgery treats

Dr. Schumacher may recommend colon resection surgery because of:

• Diverticulitis
• Crohn’s disease
• Ulcerative colitis 
• Colon cancer
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Severe case of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Large bowel obstruction 
• Inherited disorders
• Family history of colon problems
• Precancerous polyps
• High risk of colon cancer

He might remove all or part of your large intestine, depending on your diagnosis and the severity of your condition. Surgery may be indicated for severe cases of GI problems or when other treatments haven’t worked to ease your symptoms.

Symptoms of colon problems

The following symptoms could mean you have a qualifying condition for colon resection surgery:

• Bowel habit changes
• Bleeding in your stool
• Frequent diarrhea
• Ongoing constipation
• Rectal bleeding
• Frequent gas, belly pain, or cramping
• Feeling of not being able to empty your bowls completely
• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Unplanned weight loss

See Dr. Schumacher and our team at the first sign of a gastrointestinal problem to get screened for colon cancer and other GI problems requiring prompt care.

Types of colon resection surgeries

The following are types of colon resection surgeries available at Ohio Bariatrics and Laparoscopy:

Partial colectomy

During a partial colectomy, Dr. Schumacher removes part of your colon because of cancer or another lower GI concern.

Hemicolectomy

A hemicolectomy involves removing the left or right portion of your colon, leaving the remaining portion intact.

Total colectomy

Dr. Schumacher removes your entire colon during a total colectomy to eliminate cancer, ease symptoms, or avoid further GI problems. 

Proctocolectomy

A protocolectomy is a procedure in which Dr. Schumacher removes all of your colon, as well as your rectum. 

Alternatives to colon resection surgery

You may be able to undergo more conservative treatments, such as lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, medications, or dietary supplements, for a gastrointestinal problem in place of surgery. 

However, if you have cancer or another serious GI concern, colon resection surgery can be life-saving. 

See Dr. Schumacher at the first sign of new or unusual GI symptoms to determine which treatment is the most appropriate for your condition.

Find out if you’re a candidate for colon resection surgery by contacting us today at Ohio Bariatrics and Laparoscopy. Call our office or request an appointment online.