Colorectal Surgery: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients at Brahm Chaitanya Super Speciality Hospital, PCMC
At Brahm Chaitanya Super Speciality Hospital in Pimpri Chinchwad (PCMC), we prioritize the well-being and education of our patients. Understanding the procedures you may undergo is essential for both peace of mind and recovery. One such important procedure is colorectal surgery, which focuses on conditions affecting the colon, rectum, and anus. This guide will help you understand what colorectal surgery entails, the reasons it may be necessary, and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.
What is Colorectal Surgery?
Colorectal surgery refers to a wide range of surgical procedures performed to address diseases of the large intestine (colon), rectum, and anus. These procedures are often necessary to treat conditions like colorectal cancer, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, hemorrhoids, and severe cases of constipation or bowel obstruction.
Colorectal surgery can involve removing diseased sections of the colon or rectum, repairing damage, or even rerouting the intestinal tract to allow for healing. Advances in medical technology mean that many colorectal surgeries can be performed using minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopic or robotic surgery, leading to quicker recovery times and fewer complications.
Why Might You Need Colorectal Surgery?
Several conditions might lead your doctor at Brahm Chaitanya Super Speciality Hospital to recommend colorectal surgery. These conditions include:
- Colorectal Cancer: If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer of the colon or rectum, surgery is often necessary to remove the cancerous tissue. The earlier colorectal cancer is caught, the more straightforward the surgery can be. In some cases, surgery alone may be curative, while in others, it may be combined with chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
- Diverticulitis: This condition occurs when small pouches (diverticula) in the colon become inflamed or infected. Recurrent or severe diverticulitis may require surgery to remove the affected portion of the colon and prevent further complications, such as abscesses or perforation.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can cause chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. In severe cases, when medication fails to control symptoms, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged portions of the colon or rectum.
- Bowel Obstruction: Blockages in the intestines can be life-threatening. Surgery may be required to remove the obstruction and restore normal bowel function.
- Hemorrhoids and Anal Fissures: In cases where conservative treatments fail to relieve symptoms of hemorrhoids or anal fissures, surgery may be recommended to remove or repair the affected tissue.
- Fistulas and Abscesses: These are abnormal connections or pockets of infection between the rectum and surrounding tissues. Surgery is often necessary to drain abscesses and close fistulas.
Types of Colorectal Surgery
The type of colorectal surgery recommended for you depends on the underlying condition. Here are some common types of procedures:
- Colectomy: This involves removing part or all of the colon. It may be performed for conditions such as colorectal cancer, diverticulitis, or IBD. In some cases, an ileostomy or colostomy may be created, where the end of the small intestine or remaining colon is brought through an opening in the abdomen to allow waste to exit the body into a bag.
- Proctectomy: In this procedure, part or all of the rectum is removed. It’s commonly done for rectal cancer or severe cases of ulcerative colitis.
- Hemorrhoidectomy: This surgery removes large, painful hemorrhoids that haven’t responded to less invasive treatments.
- Fistulotomy: This is done to treat anal fistulas, which are abnormal tunnels between the rectum and the skin around the anus.
- Laparoscopic Surgery: Many colorectal surgeries can be performed laparoscopically, using small incisions and a camera. This method offers quicker recovery times, less pain, and fewer complications compared to traditional open surgery.
Preparing for Surgery
Your doctor will guide you through a detailed preparation process before surgery. You may be required to undergo tests such as blood work, colonoscopy, or imaging studies to evaluate the extent of the disease. Additionally, you’ll likely be asked to follow a bowel prep routine, which involves clearing your intestines using a prescribed laxative. This ensures a cleaner operating field and reduces the risk of infection.
If you take blood thinners or other medications, your healthcare team will provide instructions on whether to stop or adjust them before surgery. You’ll also meet with an anesthetist to discuss anesthesia options and manage any concerns you might have.
The Day of Surgery
On the day of your surgery, you’ll be brought into the operating room where you’ll be administered anesthesia. Depending on the complexity of your surgery, the procedure can last anywhere from 1 to 4 hours. During the surgery, your surgeon will perform the necessary repairs, removals, or reconstructions.
If a stoma (colostomy or ileostomy) is necessary, your surgeon will explain the process and how you’ll manage it post-surgery.
Recovery and Aftercare
After your surgery, you will be monitored closely in the recovery room. You may experience some pain, but this will be managed with medications. If you’ve undergone minimally invasive surgery, your recovery time will likely be shorter, and you may be able to go home within a few days.
Full recovery can take anywhere from several weeks to a few months, depending on the extent of your surgery. You’ll need to follow a special diet at first, gradually reintroducing solid foods as your digestive system heals.
Your doctor will provide detailed instructions on wound care, managing a stoma (if applicable), and recognizing signs of infection or complications. It’s important to attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and to discuss any concerns.
Final Thoughts
Colorectal surgery is a highly effective treatment for various gastrointestinal conditions, and at Brahm Chaitanya Super Speciality Hospital, we are committed to providing the highest standard of care. By understanding the process and what to expect, you can approach your surgery with greater confidence and peace of mind. Remember that your medical team is here to support you every step of the way.
If you have been diagnosed with a hernia and are considering surgery,or would like to schedule a consultation, please do not hesitate to consult our Expert Dr. Deepa Kulkarni (General / Laparoscopic / Hernia Surgeon & Breast Specialist ) for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan at Brahm Chaitanya Super Speciality Hospital. Together, we can develop a treatment plan that’s right for you, helping you return to your normal activities as quickly and safely as possible.
