Colectomy

Service Summary

A colectomy is a surgical procedure to remove all or part of the colon (large intestine), performed to treat various diseases like colorectal cancer, severe inflammatory bowel disease, or complicated diverticular disease. This major abdominal surgery aims to alleviate symptoms, prevent complications, or cure the underlying condition.

The procedure can be performed as an Open Colectomy (with a single, long incision) or, more commonly, as a Laparoscopic Colectomy (minimally invasive, using several small incisions, a camera, and specialized instruments). The type of colectomy (e.g., partial, total, or proctocolectomy) depends on the extent of colon removed, and may involve reconnecting the remaining bowel or creating a stoma. Recovery varies by approach, with laparoscopic surgery generally leading to less pain, smaller scars, shorter hospital stays, and faster overall recovery.