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Understanding Colectomy (Colon Resection Surgery)

Colectomy is also known as “Colon Resection Surgery” or “Colon Removal Surgery”. It is usually required to treat colorectal cancer (CRC), benign conditions like severe complicated ulcerative colitis, diverticular disease and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).

Colectomy surgery takes out the diseased part of the colon and maybe some nearby lymph nodes. A right hemicolectomy removes the right side of the large intestine. A left hemicolectomy, sometimes known as a sigmoid colectomy is when the surgeon takes out all or a part of the sigmoid colon which is connected to the rectum. Anterior resection is where the rectum or part of the rectum is removed. These surgeries often allow the ends of the bowel to be reconnected, to avoid having a bag or a stoma, but this depends on many factors such as patient-related factors (fitness) or presentation as an emergency. There are three types of colon removal procedures:

Laparoscopic Surgery: Minimally invasive surgery using small incisions and a camera to guide the surgeon.

Robotic Surgery: A minimally invasive technique that requires a few small incisions. It is performed using da Vinci technology.

Open Surgery: Traditional surgery with a larger incision to access the colon.

Colectomy Surgery Treats:

Check Icon Colon Cancer
Check IconDiverticulitis
Check Icon Inflammatory Bowel Diseases like Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis
Check IconBowel Obstruction
Check Icon Bowel Tumours

How Does the Colectomy Procedure For Bowel Cancer Work?

The way colectomy surgeries are done can vary based on the specific health issue. To begin the surgery, you’ll be given general anaesthesia that puts you to sleep and makes the procedure non-painful. The doctors will also keep a close watch on your breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure using monitors.

During an open colectomy, the surgeon will make a large cut in your abdomen to remove the affected part of the colon. With laparoscopic surgery, the surgeon will make several small cuts and use a camera and special tools to remove the diseased section. Alternatively, with robotic surgery, only a few small cuts are made, and a robotic system is used to precisely control the surgical tools. Then, the surgeon may reconnect the two ends of the colon or create an opening on the outside of the body.

In cases of cancer, the surgeon might also remove nearby lymph nodes. Typically, at least 12 lymph nodes are taken out during this procedure. After the surgery is completed, the surgeon will close the cut in the abdomen.

Treatment at a glance

Purpose

Purpose

Bowel Cancer and Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Procedure Duration

Procedure Duration

2-4 hours
Anaesthesia

Anaesthesia

General

Purpose

Bowel Cancer and Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Pain Level

Minimal pain

Procedure Duration

2-4 hours

Recovery Time

4-6 weeks

Drive

2-3 weeks

Anaesthesia

General

Recovery Time

Recovery Time

4-6 weeks
Pain Level

Pain Level

Minimal pain
Drive

Drive

2-3 weeks

Benefits of Colon Resection Surgery

Less Pain During Recovery

Colectomy surgery, especially when done laparoscopic or robotic, leads to less postoperative pain than traditional open surgery. Minor cuts cause less discomfort and a faster recovery.

Lower Risk of Infection

Minimally invasive colectomy surgeries involve smaller incisions, reducing the risk of infection and leading to faster healing and better patient safety and recovery. .

Reduced Blood Loss

Advanced surgical techniques like laparoscopic and robotic colectomies reduce blood loss during surgery, minimising the need for transfusions and lowering the risk of complications .

Shorter Hospital Stays

Patients undergoing minimally invasive colectomy surgery experience shorter hospital stays than those who have open surgery. The reduced pain, lower risk of infection, and faster healing with smaller incisions contribute to a quicker discharge. .

Smaller Scars

Laparoscopic and robotic colectomies use small incisions, resulting in minimal scarring and faster healing, leading to improved aesthetic outcomes and quicker recovery without discomfort and inconvenience. .

Enhanced Precision and Control

Robotic colectomy surgeries offer surgeons enhanced precision and control through a high-definition, 3D view of the surgical area and greater agility and accuracy. .

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Cost of Bowel Cancer Operation

Consultations start at £200. Please request a callback by filling out the contact form. We look forward to assisting you!

Why Choose Leicester Bowel Clinic?

01. Expertise At Leicester Bowel Clinic, we focus on bowel health and conditions, digestive issues, and cancer care. Our clinic offers minimally invasive procedures for bowel problems, ensuring effective results and patient comfort. We aim to provide personalised care for our patients and offer the latest treatments for hernias, bowel conditions and rectal disorders.

Patient Testimonials

Mr Chaudhri is an excellent surgeon I can’t thank him enough for the operations he performed on me after i was diagnosed with bowel cancer, the care he showed me before and after the operations, his friendly nature and reassurance was a great help to me during a stressful time in my life i owe so much to him and i will always be grateful to him and his colleagues .

Written by an NHS patient

Satisfied Client

I’ve been under Mr Chaudhri’s care for around 2 years now and he has always shown me the best, personal care I could ask for.

Written by an NHS patient

Satisfied Client

This doctor spoke to you and made jokes to make you feel at ease. He was also clearly very knowledgable, and his words/advice were comforting and I left feeling uplifted. With regards to the procedure itself, he wasn’t aggressive but nor was he too slow where you had time to consider the slight discomfort; the pace and strength were fine and made for a quick and easy colonoscopy.

Written by an NHS patient

Satisfied Client

Our Locations

Leicester Bowel Clinic at Spire Hospital

  • Wednesdays evenings (Mr Runau) from 6:00 pm until 9:00 pm at: Spire Leicester Hospital Gartree Road Leicester LE2 2FF
  • To arrange an appointment directly with the Spire Leicester Hospital, please call the booking line on 0116 2653685

*Free on-site parking is available.

Meet The Team

Sanjay Chaudhri

Mr Sanjay Chaudhri

Francois Runau

Mr Francois Runau

Pippa Powley

Pippa Powley

Rebecca West

Rebecca West

Meet the team

Frequently Asked Questions

01.What are the differences between open, laparoscopic, and robot-assisted surgery?

There are differences between open, laparoscopic, and robot-assisted operations in terms of the equipment used, the surgeon’s level of control and precision, and how they approach the operating area:
  • Open surgery involves cutting the skin to see the organs. It has more risks and takes longer to recover.
  • Laparoscopic surgery uses small cuts in the belly and special tools. It has a shorter recovery time than open surgery.
  • Robot-assisted surgery is like laparoscopic surgery, but the surgeon uses controls to move a robot with tools. For the patient, there may be less discomfort and risk.

02. How will I feel after surgery?

After surgery, it is normal to experience:
  • Pain and Discomfort: Manageable with prescribed pain medications.
  • Fatigue: It may take several weeks to regain your energy.
  • Changes in Bowel Movements: Adapting to changes in how your body digests food.
.

03.What does my recovery care plan look like?

Your recovery care plan may include:
  • Follow-up Appointments
  • Dietary Guidelines
  • Physical Activity
  • Medication Management

04. How do I help my incisions heal well?

To help your incisions heal well:
  • Keep the Area Clean.
  • Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities.
  • Watch for Signs of Infection like redness, swelling, or unusual discharge.
  • Follow-up Care for monitoring and care.

05. What are the risks associated with Colon Resection Surgery?

Lots of people get nervous before having surgery. It’s totally normal. Before your surgery, your doctor will discuss any risks with you. Here are some common risks for a colectomy or colon resection surgery:

    • Bad reactions to anaesthesia
    • Pneumonia
    • Blood clots in the legs or lungs
    • Internal bleeding
    • Infections where you were cut or inside your belly
    • Hernias
    • Scar tissue in your stomach that can block your intestines
    • Leaks where your intestines were stitched together
    • Death

06. What type of anaesthesia is used during the procedure?

General anaesthesia is used to ensure a pain-free experience during the surgery.

07. What is the typical recovery time for colectomy surgery?

Most patients recover within 4-6 weeks. You will gradually return to normal activities during this period.

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