Best Doctor List Near You for Colectomy in Hagerstown

Colectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of all or part of the colon, also known as the large intestine. This procedure is typically performed to treat conditions that affect the colon, such as colorectal cancer, severe inflammatory bowel disease (including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis), diverticulitis, or complicated cases of colon polyps. Colectomy can be performed in different extents depending on the underlying condition. A partial colectomy involves removing only a section of the colon, while a total colectomy entails the removal of the entire colon. The surgery can be carried out through open surgery with a large abdominal incision or via laparoscopic techniques using smaller incisions and specialized instruments. The choice of method depends on the patient's condition, the extent of the disease, and the surgeon's expertise. Complications from colectomy can include infection, bleeding, and anastomotic leak, which is the leakage of intestinal contents at the site where the remaining parts of the colon are reconnected. Other potential complications include bowel obstruction, wound healing problems, and damage to surrounding organs. Long-term effects may involve changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, and the need for a temporary or permanent colostomy (an external pouch for waste collection) if a portion of the colon is removed and not immediately reconnected. Despite these risks, colectomy can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life for patients with severe or life-threatening colon conditions.