Health Library

Large bowel resection - series

Normal anatomy

The large bowel [large intestine or the colon] is part of the digestive system. It runs from the small intestine to the rectum. It is made up of three portions; the ascending, transverse and descending colon. The ascending colon is sometimes referred to as the right colon; the descending colon is sometimes referred to as the left, or sigmoid colon.

Indications

Bowel resection may be indicated for:

• Blockage of the intestine (intestinal obstruction) due to scar tissue or tumors
• Bleeding, due to diverticulosis or arteriovenous malformations
• Injuries
• Cancer
• Precancerous polyps
• Familial polyposis
• Infection, due to diverticulitis

Incision

The patient is deep asleep and pain-free (general anesthesia). A lower midline incision is made in the abdomen. Sometimes, the surgeon will use a lateral lower transverse incision instead.

Procedure, part 1

The diseased part of the large intestine (colon) is removed. The two healthy ends are then sewn or stapled back together and the incision is closed. A stapling procedure is shown here.

Procedure, part 2

If it is necessary to spare the intestine from its normal digestive work while it heals, a temporary opening of the intestine onto the abdomen (colostomy) may be done. A temporary colostomy will be closed and repaired later. If a large portion of the bowel is removed, the colostomy may be permanent. The large intestine (colon) absorbs most of the fluid from foods. When the colon is bypassed by a colostomy in the right colon, the colostomy output is generally liquid stool (feces). If the colon is bypassed in the left colon, the colostomy output is generally more solid stool. The constant or frequent drainage of liquid stool can cause the skin around the colostomy to become inflamed. Careful skin care and a well-fitting colostomy bag can reduce this irritation.

Aftercare

Most patients will stay in the hospital for 5 to 7 days. Complete recovery from surgery may take 2 months. During the first few days after surgery, eating is restricted.

Related Information

Review Date: 4/18/2023  

Reviewed By: John Roberts, MD, Professor of Internal Medicine (Medical Oncology), Yale Cancer Center, New Haven, CT. He is board certified in Internal Medicine, Medical Oncology, Pediatrics, Hospice and Palliative Medicine. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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