March 6, 2023
Colorectal complications are issues of the colon and the rectum that include infections and cancers. When it comes to colorectal cancer, the prevalence is the third highest in the United States. The treatment of colorectal complications generally involves surgical interventions. As a patient, it is beneficial to have surface-level knowledge about colectomy. When searching for colorectal surgeons in Dallas, you can rely on the skilled and experienced team at DFW Bariatrics and General Surgery. Continuing on the topic, read along as we discuss a quick guide to understanding colorectal surgery.
Overview
Colorectal surgery or colectomy is a surgical procedure for treating complications of the colon and rectum. The colon and rectum are parts of the large intestine and are responsible for converting leftover digested food residue into solid stool. Colectomy involves repairing damage in the lower regions of the GI tract, including the colon (ascending, transverse, descending, and sigmoid) and rectum.
Reasons to opt for colorectal surgery
There are multiple reasons why patients may undergo colectomy. These include:
Morbid Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis is a medical condition where small pouches (called diverticula) are developed along the inner lining throughout or in a section of the digestive tract. Generally, doctors prescribe medication and a high-fiber diet to overcome diverticulitis, however, in severe cases where nearby tissues/organs are being affected, colectomy is prescribed.
Colon Cancer
Colon cancer involves the unrestricted growth of cells along the top layer of the colon and rectum, disrupting the normal digestive process of the body. Colectomy is prescribed to determine which portion of the colon is affected (ascending, transverse, descending, or sigmoid) and the stage of the cancer.
Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Inflammatory bowel disease is an umbrella term to describe the complications of the GI tract due to chronic inflammation, such as “Crohn’s disease” and “Ulcerative colitis”. Severe cases of these two diseases are recommended for a colectomy.
It is vital to determine the severity of the disease/medical condition and the affected region, which is why it is advisable to consult colorectal surgeons in Dallas or Fort Worth that conduct an inclusive screening test to define the aforesaid parameters.
Types of Colorectal Surgery
Based on the extent of the removal of parts of the colon, colectomy is classified into the following parts:
Partial Colectomy
Also called hemicolectomy, partial colectomy involves the surgeon removing a selected portion of the colon that contains cancerous tissue or inflammation. Generally, surgeons remove 25% to 33% of the colon along with the lymph nodes around that region and reattach the remaining parts.
Total Colectomy
As the name suggests, total colectomy involves the complete removal of the colon from the body. Though rarely prescribed, total colectomy is performed when hundreds of infectious polyps are present inside the gallbladder or the patient has morbid inflammatory bowel disease.
Final Word
Undergoing surgical interventions for weight loss involves a certain degree of risk, however, with laparoscopy, it is possible to minimize or eliminate the risk of postoperative complications. When searching for colorectal surgeons in Dallas or Fort Worth, look no further than DFW Bariatrics and General Surgery. We leverage the latest technologies and a skilled team of diverse healthcare professionals including surgeons and dieticians to help patients with bariatric and other medical conditions, including colorectal complications. To schedule a consultation, call 469-620-0222 or email [email protected]. Alternatively, you can fill out our contact form, and we will respond at the earliest.