Why Would I Be Referred to Colorectal Surgery?

Patients may need colorectal surgery for conditions such as:

✅ Colorectal Cancer – Removal of cancerous growths in the colon or rectum.

✅ Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) – Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease may require surgery if medications fail.
✅ Diverticulitis – Severe cases may require resection of affected colon sections.
✅ Hemorrhoids & Anal Fissures – Advanced or recurring cases may need surgical intervention.
✅ Bowel Obstruction or Perforation – Emergency surgeries for life-threatening conditions.
✅ Hernias in the Colorectal Region – Includes rectal prolapse repair.

Common Colorectal Surgery Procedures

• Colectomy – Removal of part or all of the colon.
• Colostomy & Ileostomy – Surgical creation of an external opening for waste elimination.
• Colorectal Cancer Surgery – Resection of tumor-affected areas.
• Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery – Minimally invasive techniques for faster recovery.
• Sphincter-Saving Procedures – Avoids permanent colostomy when possible.

Colectomy: What You Need to Know

A colectomy involves the removal of part or all of the colon. It can be:

• Total Colectomy – Entire colon is removed.
• Subtotal Colectomy – Most of the colon is removed, but some remains.
• Partial Colectomy – Only a section of the colon is removed.
• Colectomy with Ileostomy – The ileum is rerouted to an opening in the abdomen.

Recovery: Patients usually require 4-6 weeks for full recovery, with dietary and lifestyle adjustments.

Colostomy & Ileostomy: What’s the Difference?

• Colostomy – Waste exits the body through an opening (stoma) in the abdomen. Used when the colon cannot process waste normally.
• Ileostomy – Similar to a colostomy but diverts waste from the small intestine instead of the colon.
• Reversal Possible? Some colostomies and ileostomies are temporary, while others are permanent.

Life After Colorectal Surgery

• Dietary Adjustments – Low-fiber diet initially, then gradual reintroduction of solid foods.
• Bowel Function Changes – Frequent, softer stools or occasional urgency.
• Stoma Care (if applicable) – Regular cleaning and bag changes.
• Physical Activity – Gradual return to normal activities within 6-8 weeks.

Colorectal Surgery Recovery Time

• Minimally invasive surgery – 2-4 weeks.
• Traditional open surgery – 4-8 weeks.
• Full recovery – May take up to 3-6 months for some patients.