Types of Colon Resections
In colon resection, a part of the colon is taken out (resected) during surgery. The most common types of colorectal resection are listed below. Your surgeon will explain the one that is right for you.
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Right hemicolectomy
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| Part or all of the ascending colon and cecum are removed. The colon is then reconnected to the small intestine. |
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Left hemicolectomy
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| Part or all of the descending colon is removed. The transverse colon is then reconnected to the rectum. |
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Sigmoid colectomy
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| Part or all of the sigmoid colon is removed. The descending colon is then reconnected to the rectum. |
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Low anterior resection
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| The sigmoid colon and a portion of the rectum are removed. The descending colon is reconnected to the remaining rectum. |
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Abdominal perineal resection
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| Part or all of the sigmoid colon and the whole rectum and anus are removed. A colostomy is then done. |
Colostomy
After certain types of surgery, the colon and rectum may need to be kept clear of stool while they heal. In other cases, the rectum has been taken out. Or it can’t be reconnected to the rest of the colon. In either case, you need a colostomy. This makes a new opening in the belly so waste can leave the body. You may need the new opening for a short time, or permanently. If you had a colostomy during colorectal surgery, your healthcare providers will help you learn how to care for it.
Online Medical Reviewer:
Jen Lehrer MD
Online Medical Reviewer:
Kenny Turley PA-C
Online Medical Reviewer:
L Renee Watson MSN RN
Date Last Reviewed:
6/1/2019
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