Post-Colectomy Recovery: What to Expect and How to Heal

Anytime you have surgery, there is a recovery period afterward. Understanding the surgical procedure and what to expect in the days and weeks that follow will assist in the speed of healing.

What is a Colectomy

• A colectomy is the removal of all or a part of your colon, otherwise known as the large intestine.

Why is a Colectomy Performed?

• Understanding why a colectomy is being performed helps ease recovery. Some of the reasons a colectomy is performed include bowel obstruction, bowel perforation, colon cancer, crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis and preventative surgery.

Risks of Complications

• There are serious risks of complications that can occur after surgery. These risks must be considered when recovering. Risks include: bleeding, blood clots, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, bowel obstruction, scar tissue, infection, damage to nearby organs and tears in the areas connecting to your digestive system.

During the Colectomy

• While you are in surgery, your breathing will be monitored, your blood pressure will be checked and you will receive intravenous medication.

After the Colectomy

• After surgery is completed, you will remain in the hospital until your body has resumed normal bowel functions. Until it does, you will not be able to eat solid foods and will likely be on a clear-liquids diet. Depending on the extent on your surgery, you may have a colostomy or ileostomy bag on the outside of your body to help rid yourself of waste.