Colon

Colon Surgery Jacksonville, FL | Colectomy

Colon Surgeon Dr. Matthew T. Smith

Some patients may require a colon surgery called colectomy. Colectomy may be necessary to relieve a variety of medical conditions. Patients must clearly understand what this procedure is, when they may need it, and what to expect from start to finish. Understanding more about colectomies will put your mind at ease and help you make an informed decision about your health.

What the Colon Does

The colon is also referred to as the large bowel and makes a square-like shape in your abdomen. It’s surprisingly large and is about five feet in length. It is a digestive organ that helps your body process food. The food enters your body and the colon from the small intestine absorbs water and becomes digested before being excreted.

When is Colon Surgery Required?

You may need a colectomy if your colon is not working correctly. This can be attributed to inflammation around the area, like diverticulitis or other bowel issues. If there is an infection in your colon, a blockage, or cancer, you may also require colon surgery. Your physician may recommend this step if you are still experiencing pain despite the treatment with medications or lifestyle habit changes.

Types of Colectomies

There are four types of colectomies.

Total Colectomy (removal of the entire colon)
Partial Colectomy (removal of part of the colon)
Hemicolectomy (removal of the right or left portion of the colon)
Proctocolectomy (removal of both colon and rectum)

Surgery can be done through an open, laparoscopic, or robotic approach. Open colectomies make a large incision across the abdomen, and a laparoscopic colectomy is completed with several small incisions. Typically, laparoscopic surgeries heal quicker but may not always be possible. Robotic colectomies can also be done through small incisions. Typically minimally invasive surgery results in less post-operative pain and a required return to work.

What to Expect During Recovery

Everybody’s recovery process is unique. Most people start to feel much better about one or two weeks following surgery. However, you should expect the entire recovery process to take about four weeks to complete. Each patient is different, so the timeline may vary a bit. As you recover, it’s important to listen to your body. Make sure that you rest when you are tired, and stop the activity that causes pain or discomfort. You should take care to avoid strenuous activities such as lifting heavy items or challenging workouts. Your doctor will inform you when it’s okay to resume more strenuous activity.

Follow your doctor’s advice about your diet, medications, and proper incision care for better recovery. It’s important to talk to your doctor if you experience a fever, bleeding, or difficulty passing stool at any point during your recovery.

Contact Dr. Smith of North Florida Surgeons

Dr. Smith is a top-tier surgeon who prioritizes patient care and education. He believes in discussing options with patients to always have a clear understanding of what you can expect. Our staff is compassionate and will answer your questions or concerns. Contact us to learn more about the services we offer. If you are looking for a surgeon, contact North Florida Surgeons today!

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