Colon Surgery (Colon Resection): What You Need to Know
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What is Colon Surgery (Colon Resection)?
A colon resection, also called colectomy, is a surgery to remove part or all of the colon (large intestine) most often affiliated and affect by colon cancer. It is one of the most effective treatments for colon cancer and may be performed alongside other therapies such as chemotherapy or radiation.
This page explains why colon resection may be needed, what to expect before, during, and after surgery, and how to support a healthy recovery.
What Is a Colon Resection?
A colon resection involves removing the section of the colon containing cancer, along with nearby lymph nodes. The remaining healthy sections of the colon are then reconnected (a process called anastomosis) or a temporary or permanent colostomy may be created, depending on the situation.
There are different types of colectomies based on the location of the cancer:
- Right hemicolectomy: Removal of the ascending (right) colon
- Left hemicolectomy: Removal of the descending (left) colon
- Sigmoid colectomy: Removal of the sigmoid (lower) colon
- Transverse colectomy: Removal of the transverse (upper) colon
- Total colectomy: Removal of the entire colon (less common)
Why This Surgery May Be Needed
Colon resection is usually recommended for:
- Confirmed colon cancer diagnosis
- Precancerous polyps that can’t be removed endoscopically
- Large or deeply invasive tumors
- Blockages, bleeding, or perforation of the colon caused by cancer
- To obtain clear margins and lymph nodes for accurate staging
Your surgeon will explain the type of surgery based on your tumor’s size, location, and stage.
Before the Procedure
Pre-Surgery Preparation Includes:
- Blood tests and imaging (CT scan, colonoscopy, etc.)
- Bowel prep to cleanse the colon with 4 available methods of medication administration including:
- Medication review: You may need to adjust blood thinners, diabetes meds, or supplements
- Clear liquid diet for 1–2 days before surgery
- Discussion of anesthesia, colostomy, or ostomy options, if applicable
- Meeting with a colorectal surgeon or oncologist
You’ll also be asked to arrange a ride home and prepare for a hospital stay of several days.
What to Expect During Surgery
Surgery Details:
- Performed under general anesthesia
- May be done as:
- Open surgery (larger incision in the abdomen)
- Laparoscopic (minimally invasive) or robot-assisted surgery
- The cancerous portion of the colon is removed along with nearby lymph nodes
- The two ends of the bowel are either reconnected or diverted with a temporary colostomy
Typical duration: 2–4 hours
Hospital stay: 3–7 days depending on recovery and surgical approach
After the Procedure
In the Hospital:
- You may receive IV fluids, pain management, and antibiotics
- Walking is encouraged as soon as possible to prevent blood clots
- Your diet will progress from liquids to solids gradually
- You’ll be monitored for bowel function and incision healing
At Home:
- Recovery time is typically 4–6 weeks, depending on your overall health and surgery type
- You may feel tired, bloated, or sore during healing
- Follow-up visits will review pathology results and discuss any further treatment (like chemotherapy)
Call your provider if you experience:
- Fever over 100.4°F (38°C)
- Redness or discharge at the incision site
- Severe pain, swelling, or persistent nausea
- No bowel movements or passing gas for several days
Risks and Complications
Colectomy is generally safe but can involve some risks:
- Infection or bleeding
- Damage to nearby organs
- Leakage at the reconnection site (anastomotic leak)
- Blood clots or pneumonia
- Hernia or bowel obstruction
- Need for temporary or permanent colostomy
Your surgical team will monitor closely and provide specific instructions to minimize these risks.
Life After Colon Resection
Most people return to normal activities, work, and diet over time. Some adjustments may include:
- Temporary changes in bowel habits (looser or more frequent stools)
- Short-term dietary restrictions (low-residue diet, gradual reintroduction of fiber)
- Colostomy or ileostomy care, if applicable
- Ongoing follow-up care for cancer monitoring (CT scans, colonoscopy, CEA blood tests)
Your care team will help guide you through post-surgical recovery and any further treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between a colectomy and a colostomy?
A colectomy is a surgical procedure to remove part or all of the colon, while a colostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an opening (stoma) in the abdomen to divert stool. While slightly different these terms go hand in hand with one often involving the other during the same procedure.
Will I need a colectomy?
Not always. Many conditions can be managed without surgery. If surgery is recommended, your care team will explain why and whether it’s temporary or permanent.
Can I live a normal life without part of my colon?
Yes. Most people adjust well and resume their normal activities and eating habits over time.
Will I need chemotherapy after surgery?
It depends. Your oncologist will recommend chemotherapy if cancer is found in lymph nodes or if other risk factors are present. Please consult your provider further if you have questions about chemotherapy and cancer treatments.
Will the surgery affect how I go to the bathroom?
Possibly. You may have more frequent or looser stools for a few weeks, but bowel habits often improve with time.
Can I eat normally after surgery?
Your diet will be advanced slowly, starting with liquids. Most patients return to a regular diet within a few weeks, though low-fiber or low-residue diets may be recommended short-term.
How is pain managed after a colectomy?
You may receive IV pain medications or oral painkillers. Your care team will help you stay comfortable while minimizing side effects.
Are there long-term dietary restrictions?
Usually not. However, some people may need to avoid certain foods that cause gas or irritation, depending on how much colon was removed.
How will I know if the cancer was completely removed?
Your surgeon will review pathology results after surgery. If margins are clear and no lymph nodes contain cancer, this is a good sign.
What are the risks of colectomy?
As with any major surgery, risks include infection, bleeding, injury to nearby organs, blood clots, and bowel leakage or obstruction.
When will I be able to walk or move around?
You’ll be encouraged to walk within a day after surgery. Movement helps prevent blood clots and speeds recovery.
Will I have a catheter or drains after surgery?
You may temporarily have a urinary catheter or surgical drains, depending on the type and complexity of the procedure.
How soon can I drive again?
Usually after 2–4 weeks, once you’re off narcotic pain medications and can move comfortably.
Will I need follow-up appointments?
Yes. You’ll have several follow-up visits to monitor healing and review pathology results. If cancer was found, you’ll also meet with an oncology team.
Will I have a scar?
Yes. Laparoscopic surgery leaves small scars, while open surgery results in a larger abdominal scar.
Need Support or Have Questions?
If you’re scheduled for colon cancer surgery or exploring your treatment options, we’re here to help. Speak with your healthcare provider, surgeon, or oncology care team to get personalized answers and support throughout your journey.