What is Intestinal/Bowel Resection?
Intestinal or bowel resection is a surgery where doctors remove part of the intestine or bowel. This procedure is often done to address problems like cancer, Crohn’s disease, diverticulitis, or severe blockages in the digestive system. The main goal is to cut out the damaged or unhealthy part of the intestine and reconnect the remaining healthy sections.
Why is it Done?
Here are a few reasons why doctors might recommend this surgery:
- Cancer: To remove cancerous growths or tumors from the bowel.
- Crohn’s Disease: To take out parts of the bowel that are severely inflamed or scarred.
- Diverticulitis: To address inflamed pouches in the bowel that cause pain and complications.
- Blockages: To clear any blockages that are preventing normal bowel function.
Types of Bowel Resection
- Partial Resection: This involves removing a section of the bowel and connecting the two healthy ends together.
- Total Colectomy: This means removing the entire colon and connecting the small intestine to the rectum or creating an opening (ostomy) for waste.
- Subtotal Colectomy: This involves removing part of the colon and connecting the remaining part to the rectum or small intestine.
What to Expect During the Surgery
Before the surgery, you’ll have tests to determine the best approach. The surgery can be done in two main ways:
- Open Surgery: Involves a larger cut in the abdomen. It’s used for more complex cases.
- Laparoscopic Surgery: Involves smaller cuts and a camera, usually leading to a faster recovery and less pain.
During the surgery, the doctor will remove the damaged part of the bowel and then reconnect the healthy parts. Sometimes, a temporary colostomy or ileostomy is created to help the bowel heal.
Recovery and Aftercare
After surgery, you’ll stay in the hospital for a few days for monitoring. Here’s what to expect during recovery:
- Hospital Stay: Usually lasts 3 to 7 days, depending on the surgery and how well you’re doing.
- Diet: You’ll start with clear liquids and slowly return to regular food as you feel better.
- Activity: You should avoid heavy lifting and intense exercise for several weeks but light activity is encouraged.
Long-Term Outlook
Most people recover well after a bowel resection and go back to their usual activities. To support long-term health:
- Diet: Follow a balanced diet and any specific dietary instructions given by your doctor.
- Follow-Up: Regular check-ups are important to monitor your recovery and catch any issues early.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: You might need to make changes to your diet and daily routine based on how your body adjusts after the surgery.
Intestinal or bowel resection is an important surgery aimed at improving health and treating serious conditions. By understanding the process and preparing for recovery, you can help ensure a smoother path to better health. Always discuss any questions or concerns with your healthcare provider for the best advice and support throughout your treatment.
