Total abdominal colectomy

Alternative Names: Ileorectal anastomosis

Total abdominal colectomy is the removal of the large intestine from the ileum (lowest part of the small intestine) to the rectum. After it is removed, the end of the small intestine is sewn to the rectum.

Description of Procedure

You will receive general anesthesia right before your surgery. This will make you unconscious and unable to feel pain.

During the surgery:

• Your surgeon will make a surgical cut in your belly. Then your surgeon will remove your large intestine. Your rectum and anus will be left in place.
• Your surgeon will sew the end of your ileum to your rectum.

Risks of Total abdominal colectomy

Total abdominal colectomy is usually safe. Your risk depends on your general overall health. Ask your doctor about these possible complications:

Risks for any surgery are:

• Blood clots in the legs that may travel to the lungs
• Breathing problems
• Infection, including in the lungs, urinary tract, and belly
• Heart attack or stroke

Risks for this surgery are:

• Bleeding inside your belly
• Damage to nearby organs in the body
• Scar tissue may form in the belly and cause a blockage of the small intestine
• The end of the small intestine that is sewn to the rectum may come open ( anastomosis), which may be life threatening
• Wound may break open
• Wound infections

Review Date: 11/23/2010
Reviewed By: George F. Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, San Diego, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

_{Do not use this information for medical emergencies - Call 911. This information should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should always be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Links to other websites do not constitute endorsements and are provided for information only. Any duplication or distribution of this information is strictly prohibited.
Copyright 2011 A.D.A.M., Inc.}