Worried about needing colon surgery? Learn when a colon resection is necessary and what to expect before, during, and after for patients across Wellington and Palm Beach County, Florida.
Let’s Clear This Up: Yes, You Can Live Without Part of Your Colon
Hearing that you may need a colon resection, also known as colectomy, can feel overwhelming. It’s common for patients to think, “How can I live without part of my colon?”
The truth is: you absolutely can. Most people go on to live healthy, active lives after colon surgery. At Advanced Surgical Physicians, we help patients across Wellington and Palm Beach County navigate their diagnosis and treatment options with clarity and compassion. In this post, we’ll explain when colon resection is necessary, what the surgery involves, and what recovery looks like.
When Is Colon Resection Needed?
A colon resection may be recommended when part of your colon is diseased, damaged, or no longer functioning properly. Common conditions that may require this surgery include:
- Colon cancer
- Diverticulitis
- Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
- Colon polyps that can’t be removed endoscopically
- Colon blockage or obstruction
- Colon injury or trauma
Your surgeon will only recommend surgery when the benefits clearly outweigh the risks and when it offers the best path forward for your health.
What Is a Colon Resection?
A colon resection involves removing the affected portion of the colon (large intestine) and then reattaching the healthy ends. This is often done using minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopic or robotic-assisted surgery, which means:
- Smaller incisions
- Less pain
- Lower risk of infection
- Shorter hospital stays
- Faster recovery
In some cases, a temporary colostomy may be necessary to allow the colon to heal, but many patients are able to avoid this depending on the type and location of surgery.
What to Expect Before, During, and After Surgery
Before Surgery
You’ll meet with your surgeon to review your medical history, imaging, and labs. You may need to complete a bowel prep the day before surgery to clean out the colon. We’ll walk you through everything step by step.
During Surgery
The procedure typically takes a few hours and is performed under general anesthesia. We’ll remove the diseased portion of the colon and reconnect the healthy sections. Minimally invasive tools allow us to reduce tissue trauma and promote faster healing.
After Surgery
- Most patients stay in the hospital for 2 to 5 days
- You’ll begin with clear liquids and gradually return to solid food
- We encourage walking soon after surgery to prevent complications
- Recovery time varies, but many patients resume light activity within 2 weeks and return to normal routines in about 4 to 6 weeks
Life After Colon Resection
Yes, you can still live a normal, active life without part of your colon. Most patients have little to no long-term changes in digestion or bowel habits after healing. We’ll work with you on diet, activity, and follow-up care to ensure the best possible outcome.
Trust Your Colon Health to Experts in Wellington and Palm Beach County
At Advanced Surgical Physicians, we understand the anxiety that comes with colon surgery. Our experienced team uses the most advanced techniques to deliver safe, effective care and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Call today or request an appointment online to find out if colon resection is the right choice for your health.
