Colon Surgery: The goal of colon surgery is to eliminate the colon cancer by removing a section of the colon that is infected. This procedure is also referred to as a colon resection.

Preparing for colon surgery

The night before a colon resection is a busy and important time. The colon must be cleansed with a powerful laxative and antibiotics to flush out any food remnants to reduce the risk of infection during and after the surgery. In addition, only clear liquids should be consumed the night before and you should not consume anything after midnight; this keeps the colon free of stool.

Before colon surgery

Before colon surgery takes place you will go through a series of routine tests, such as blood work and EKG and/or chest X-rays. You will be completely asleep (general anesthesia) for the colon surgery.

The procedure

Depending on the amount of colon that needs to be removed, the amount of previous scarring, and the technique used the procedure will typically last from 2 to 4 hours.

After making an incision in the abdomen, usually down the middle, the surgeon will isolate the diseased portion of the colon from the surrounding organs and remove it. Once the infected section is removed, the surgeon will reconnect the colon with sutures or with a stapling device. This procedure is called anastomosis or resection and is one of the most common procedures used to remove colon cancer.

If necessary a colostomy may be constructed to help eliminate waste products while the colon is healing. A colostomy is an incision (cut) into the colon (large intestine) to create an artificial opening or "stoma" to the exterior of the abdomen. This opening serves as a substitute anus. Bowel movements fall into a collection pouch. Our ostomy nursing staff will teach you skin care and how to change the bag.

After colon surgery

You may have a thin plastic tube in your nose that goes down to your stomach. The purpose is to remove any air or fluid that would make you uncomfortable or sick. It will be removed as soon as your bowels start working, usually 4-5 days after surgery. Your incision will usually have metal clips, or staples, on the skin surface and your abdomen may be slightly bruised and swollen.