Surgery and plastic Is a colon resection a major surgery?
Colon resection (colectomy) is the surgical removal of part or the entire colon. Colectomy is a major surgery and may take up to four hours for completion. Colectomy is performed under general anesthesia and may require hospitalization for up to a week or more.
What are the side effects of a colon resection?
Side effects of a bowel resection include:
- pain.
- fatigue.
- bleeding.
- blood clots.
- diarrhea.
- constipation.
- bowel obstruction.
- infection.
How soon can you drive after colon surgery?
Most insurance policies state that you are not covered by your policy to drive for 6 weeks after major abdominal surgery. After this period of time, if you can safely perform an emergency stop without the pain of the operation preventing you from doing so, you should be safe to drive.
What can you eat after colon resection surgery?
We recommend eating 6 times per day, or every 2 to 3 hours. Eat foods that are easy to swallow and digest. These usually consist of soft, moist foods such as soup, gelatin, pudding, and yogurt. Avoid gummy foods such as bread and tough meats, as well as spicy, fried, or gas-producing foods.
How painful is colon resection surgery?
You are likely to have pain that comes and goes for the next few days after bowel surgery. You may have bowel cramps, and your cut (incision) may hurt. You may also feel like you have the flu. You may have a low fever and feel tired and nauseated.
How serious is bowel resection surgery?
As with all surgeries, bowel resections come with certain risks or possible complications. They include: Infection: Your surgical wound can become infected. You may also get an infection in the lungs (pneumonia) or urinary tract.
Do you lose weight after colon resection?
It is normal to lose some weight after this surgery. Soon it will level off and slowly you will start to regain some of the weight you lost. Try to have a good calorie intake to keep up your energy. Your bowel actions may change after your surgery.
Do you need a colostomy bag after a bowel resection?
Most people who have a large bowel resection make a full recovery. You may have to use a colostomy bag temporarily. You may also need a permanent colostomy. A colostomy doesn’t usually prevent you from doing the activities you enjoy.
What can I expect after colon surgery?
When will my bowel function return to normal? Many patients who have colon cancer surgery find that it temporarily changes the way their bowel functions. You won’t be required to have a bowel movement before being discharged from the hospital, but you should have a bowel movement within a few days of returning home.
Can I sleep on my side after colon surgery?
Once the stoma area heals, you can start experimenting with your usual sleep position. If you’re a side sleeper and prefer lying on the same side as your stoma, this position shouldn’t cause any concern because your pouch will be supported by the bed.
How long after bowel surgery can you poop?
After surgery, your caregivers will frequently ask whether you have passed gas. This is because passing gas is a sign that your bowels are returning to normal. You may not have a bowel movement for four to five days following surgery.
How long are you in the hospital after a bowel resection?
You can expect to spend 7-8 days in hospital (slightly less on average if the procedure is done laparoscopically) and 7-8 weeks before you feel back to normal (4-5 weeks after laparoscopic bowel surgery.
How do you stop diarrhea after colon surgery?
A stool softener, such as Colace, milk of magnesium, or prune juice may help. Diarrhea is also common after a colon resection. Your colon is shortened and therefore stool may pass at a faster rate. Give it time, approximately 6-8 weeks, and your colon should start to function more normally.
How long do you have to stay on a low fiber diet after colon surgery?
It is recommended that you follow a Low-Fiber diet for one month following surgery. After one month, reintroduce fibrous foods back into your diet, one at a time and GRADUALLY. Note: If a particular food makes you feel unwell, stop eating it and try it again 2 to 3 weeks later.