Sometimes, when there is a problem with a part of our intestine, doctors recommend surgical removal of that diseased part. It is normal to feel a little scared and nervous when hearing about such a surgery. But once you understand this correctly , that fear goes away to a great extent. So today, let's talk about these surgeries that remove part of the intestine.
What is Ileocolectomy and Right Colectomy?
Simply put, these are two methods of surgically removing a diseased part of your digestive system.
- Ileocolectomy: In this surgery, the last part of your small intestine, the ileum, and the first part of your large intestine, the ascending colon, are cut out and removed.
- Right Colectomy: Here, only the right side of the large intestine (ascending colon) is removed, without leaving the ileum of the small intestine.
Now you may be wondering why this type of surgery is performed. There are usually several main reasons for performing this surgery.
- Cancer conditions that occur in the intestine.
- Noncancerous growths .
- Swelling and inflammation in the intestines caused by conditions like Crohn's disease .
The most important thing is that doctors decide to perform this surgery only after carefully examining your condition and confirming that this is the best treatment for you.
What is Laparoscopy?
In the past, this type of surgery required a large incision in the abdomen. But now, with advances in technology, this surgery is often performed using a technique called laparoscopy . This is also called "keyhole surgery."
Imagine, instead of making a large incision in the abdomen, a few very small incisions (like a keyhole) are made in the abdomen, through which a camera and delicate instruments are inserted. This means you feel less pain, recover faster, and have very little scarring.
How does the surgery happen? 4 main steps!
This surgery consists of four main steps. I will explain them in a way that you can understand.
| Steps | What happens is simple. |
|---|---|
| Step 1: Inserting the laparoscope | After you are anesthetized, the surgeon makes a very small incision (about 1/2 inch) near your belly button (navel). Through this, a camera-equipped instrument called a laparoscope is inserted into your abdomen. The images from this camera are displayed on a large screen (monitor) in the operating room. Then, 5 or 6 more small incisions are made and the rest of the surgical instruments are inserted. |
| Step 2: Freeing the bowel | Now the diseased part of the intestine needs to be separated from the healthy part. The intestine is attached to the abdominal wall by a membrane called the mesentery . The main blood vessels that supply the intestine with blood pass through this membrane. The doctor carefully cuts these blood vessels and seals them. Then the diseased part of the intestine is freed from this mesentery. |
| Step 3: Removing the diseased part | Because the incisions are very small during laparoscopy, a special method is used to remove the cut piece of intestine. The doctor makes one of the previous incisions slightly larger and inserts a special bag into the abdomen through it. The removed diseased part of the intestine is then placed inside this bag and the bag is carefully removed. |
| Step 4: Reconnecting the intestine | After the diseased part is removed, the two ends of the remaining healthy intestine are joined together. This is done using a stapler or dissolvable sutures. This process of reconnecting two parts of the intestine is called an anastomosis . Finally, the abdominal cavity is thoroughly washed, the newly connected area is checked for leaks, and all incisions are closed. |
Let's learn about the recovery period at home
When you return home after surgery, it is very important to gradually resume your daily activities.
Walking is the best exercise!
Yes, walking can help your healing process a lot. Walking strengthens muscles , improves blood circulation, and prevents blood clots., and it also helps keep your lungs healthy . If you were a good exerciser before surgery, you can start your usual exercise routine when you feel comfortable and your doctor gives you permission.
But remember! It is not recommended to do strenuous exercise, weight lifting, and exercises that put pressure on the abdomen, such as sit-ups, for six weeks after surgery.
How is the diet?
When you are sent home from the hospital, you will be given instructions on a diet to follow for a short period of time. You will usually be advised to follow a soft diet . This means that you can eat most things except raw fruits and vegetables. Follow this diet until you go to the clinic for your post-surgical check-up.
Important: If you experience constipation due to this diet, please consult your doctor for advice. Do not self-medicate.
Although surgery is a big deal, with the right knowledge and following medical advice, you can recover quickly and return to your normal life.
Take-Home Message
- Ileocolectomy and Right Colectomy are two surgical procedures that remove a diseased part of the colon. They are performed for conditions such as cancer, non-cancerous tumors, and Crohn's disease.
- Most often, this surgery is performed using a "keyhole" technique called laparoscopy. This results in less pain and faster recovery.
- When you get home after surgery, gradually start light exercise, such as walking. But avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for 6 weeks.
- Follow your doctor's dietary instructions exactly. If you have a problem like constipation, talk to your doctor about it.
- If you have any doubts or questions, don't hesitate to ask your doctor.
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