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Colectomy (Colon Cancer Surgery)

Surgical removal of part or all of the colon for colorectal cancer or other diseases

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Genel Cerrahi department. Book Appointment →

What is Colectomy (Colon Cancer Surgery)?

Types of colectomy: right hemicolectomy (cecum, ascending colon), extended right (with transverse), left hemicolectomy, sigmoid colectomy, total/subtotal colectomy.

Laparoscopic and robotic colectomy are standard for most cases - 4-5 small ports plus a 4-7 cm extraction site.

Open colectomy reserved for emergencies, complex anatomy, or T4 tumors.

Complete mesocolic excision (CME) and central vascular ligation are oncologic principles.

Anastomosis (intracorporeal or extracorporeal) restores bowel continuity; temporary stoma may be needed for low rectal anastomoses.

Surgery time 2-5 hours; hospital stay 3-7 days with enhanced recovery pathways.

Symptoms

Colorectal cancer (most common indication): change in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, iron-deficiency anemia, abdominal pain.
Diverticular disease with complications (perforation, abscess, fistula, recurrent attacks).
Inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's) refractory to medical therapy or with dysplasia.
Volvulus, ischemic colitis, large bowel obstruction.
Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) - prophylactic total colectomy.
Postoperative concerns: anastomotic leak, ileus, surgical site infection, deep vein thrombosis.

Risk Factors

Age over 50 (peak incidence of colorectal cancer).
Family history of colorectal cancer or polyposis syndromes (FAP, Lynch syndrome).
Personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis > 8-10 years).
Diet high in red and processed meat, low fiber.
Obesity, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, heavy alcohol use.
Type 2 diabetes.

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Rectal bleeding, hematochezia, or melena requires prompt colonoscopy.
  • Change in bowel habits lasting more than 4-6 weeks.
  • Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or iron-deficiency anemia.
  • Persistent abdominal pain or palpable mass.
  • Symptoms of bowel obstruction: severe cramping, distension, vomiting.
  • Postoperative warning signs: fever, severe abdominal pain, no return of bowel function, signs of leak.

Treatment Methods

01
Multidisciplinary tumor board with staging via CT chest/abdomen/pelvis, MRI for rectal cancer, CEA tumor marker.
02
Mechanical bowel preparation and oral antibiotics may reduce surgical site infection.
03
Laparoscopic complete mesocolic excision with high vascular ligation.
04
Sentinel lymph node mapping not standard; minimum 12 lymph nodes for adequate staging.
05
Anastomosis with circular stapler or hand-sewn; protective ileostomy for low anastomoses.
06
Adjuvant chemotherapy (FOLFOX, CAPOX) for stage III or high-risk stage II.
07
Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols: early feeding, ambulation, opioid-sparing analgesia.
08
Surveillance: CEA every 3-6 months, CT annually, colonoscopy at 1, 3, then 5 years.

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Genel Cerrahi department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.