What is Colorectal Surgery?

Colorectal surgery is a specialized field of medicine focused on diagnosing and treating diseases of the colon, rectum, and anus. These procedures address a variety of conditions, including colorectal cancer, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and severe hemorrhoids. The primary goal of colorectal surgery is to restore or maintain the health of the digestive tract, ensuring that patients can lead healthy and active lives.

Common Conditions Treated with Colorectal Surgery

Colorectal Cancer: One of the most common reasons for colorectal surgery, colorectal cancer involves the removal of cancerous tumors from the colon or rectum. Depending on the cancer’s stage and location, the surgery may involve partial or complete removal of the affected section of the colon or rectum.
Diverticulitis: This condition occurs when small pouches (diverticula) in the colon wall become inflamed or infected. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the affected portion of the colon to prevent recurrence.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): IBD, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the digestive tract. Surgery may be necessary when medications and other treatments fail to control symptoms or complications arise.
Hemorrhoids: Severe or recurrent hemorrhoids that don’t respond to non-surgical treatments may require surgical intervention. Procedures range from minimally invasive techniques to more extensive surgeries, depending on the severity of the condition.

Types of Colorectal Surgery

Several surgical techniques are used to treat colorectal conditions:

Colectomy: This procedure involves the removal of part or all of the colon. A partial colectomy removes the diseased section of the colon, while a total colectomy removes the entire colon. In some cases, the surgery may also involve creating a stoma (an opening on the abdomen) to divert waste into a colostomy bag.
Proctectomy: A proctectomy involves the removal of the rectum and is often performed in cases of rectal cancer. If the entire rectum is removed, the surgeon may create an internal pouch from the colon to restore bowel function.
Minimally Invasive Surgery: Advances in surgical technology have made it possible to perform many colorectal surgeries using minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopy or robotic-assisted surgery. These techniques involve smaller incisions, which typically result in less pain, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recovery times.

Preparing for Colorectal Surgery

Preparation for colorectal surgery often includes:

Pre-Surgery Assessment: This involves a thorough evaluation by your surgical team, including blood tests, imaging studies, and discussions about your medical history and current medications.
Bowel Preparation: Before surgery, you’ll likely need to undergo bowel preparation to clear the intestines. This process may involve a special diet, laxatives, or enemas.
Lifestyle Adjustments: Depending on the type of surgery, your surgeon may recommend certain lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking or adjusting your diet, to improve your surgical outcome and recovery.

What to Expect After Surgery

Recovery from colorectal surgery varies depending on the procedure and individual factors, but patients can generally expect:

Hospital Stay: A typical hospital stay ranges from a few days to a week, depending on the complexity of the surgery.
Post-Surgery Diet: Initially, you may need to follow a liquid diet, gradually reintroducing solid foods as your digestive system heals.
Activity Restrictions: While recovery times vary, you’ll need to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for several weeks after surgery.

When to Consult a Surgeon

If you are experiencing symptoms such as persistent abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, or changes in bowel habits, it is crucial to seek medical advice. Early diagnosis and treatment of colorectal conditions can significantly improve outcomes and may prevent the need for more extensive surgery.

At Surgical Associates of Tulsa, our experienced colorectal surgeons dedicate themselves to providing compassionate, patient-centered care. We use the latest surgical techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. If you are dealing with a colorectal condition, contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward better health.