What Is a Bowel Resection?
A bowel resection is a surgical procedure to remove a portion of the bowel, which can include the small intestine, large intestine (colon), or rectum. This surgery is often used to treat various diseases and blockages in the bowel that could be life-threatening or cause significant discomfort.
Why Is Bowel Resection Performed?
Your doctor might recommend bowel resection for several reasons:
Cancer: The amount of bowel removed depends on the size and location of the tumor. Nearby lymph nodes are often removed as well.
Diverticulitis: Surgery may be needed in cases of severe infection or perforation.
Blockage: When food and liquid can’t pass through the intestines, the tissue may die due to lack of blood supply.
Severe Bleeding: If a bowel bleed cannot be controlled, surgery may be necessary to remove the affected section.
Types of Bowel Resection Surgeries
There are three main types of bowel resection surgery:
Open Resection: A single large incision is made in the abdomen, and the surgeon uses traditional tools to remove part of the bowel.
Laparoscopic Resection: Several small incisions are made, and a laparoscope (a small camera) is inserted to guide the surgeon in removing the bowel using specialized instruments.
Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Resection: The surgeon controls robotic instruments to perform the surgery, offering precision and flexibility.
The type of surgery you have depends on the condition being treated, the size of the affected area, and its location. In some cases, a surgeon may switch from laparoscopic to open surgery during the procedure if needed.
How To Prepare for Surgery?
Before your surgery, you will meet with your surgeon to discuss your medical history and medications. Tests like chest X-rays, blood tests, and electrocardiograms (ECGs) will be performed to ensure you are fit for surgery.
In the days leading up to surgery, your doctor may ask you to stop taking certain medications, like ibuprofen. You will also need to follow a liquid diet the day before surgery and take a laxative to clear your bowel. Showering with antiseptic soap the night before surgery helps prevent infection.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Bowel resection is considered major surgery. You will be given general anesthesia to ensure you are asleep and pain-free during the procedure. The surgeon will carefully detach the affected part of the bowel from surrounding tissues and organs, removing the damaged portion. The healthy ends of the bowel are then reconnected using staples or sutures.
In some cases, a colostomy is necessary. This involves creating a stoma (an opening in the skin) for waste to pass into a bag. The colostomy may be temporary, with a second surgery required after healing to reconnect the bowel.
Recovery After Surgery
You will stay in the hospital for 2 to 4 days, depending on the type of surgery and your recovery. Your doctor will provide pain relief and instructions for wound care. If you have a colostomy, they will show you how to care for it.
Initially, you will be able to drink fluids and may progress to solid foods the next day. A low-fiber diet may be recommended for about a month. Recovery from laparoscopic surgery is faster, typically allowing you to resume daily activities within 1 to 2 weeks, though full recovery may take up to 6 weeks (about 1 and a half months). Avoid lifting heavy objects or strenuous activity until cleared by your doctor.
By following these guidelines and attending follow-up appointments, you can ensure a smoother recovery after your bowel resection surgery.
