What Is a Colectomy?

A colectomy is a procedure in which all or part of the colon is removed.

The large intestine, which consists of the colon and rectum, is a long, tunnel-like organ at the end of the digestive system. Here, waste products form into feces before passing through the rectum and anus.

If disease or a physical blockage affects the colon, a colectomy may be needed to help the rest of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract function properly.

The amount and location of colon removal will depend on a patient’s health condition and reason for the procedure. In some cases, the entire colon may need to be removed. Other times, only part of the colon may need resection.

During a total colectomy (proctocolectomy), the surgeon removes the entire colon and rectum.

This can result in an ileostomy. During this procedure, the small intestine is connected to an opening in the abdominal wall, or stoma. The stoma attaches to a pouch outside of the body called an ostomy bag, which collects waste.

Alternatively, the small intestine may be attached directly to the anus through an ileal pouch, which holds waste inside the body without the need for an ostomy bag.

Not everyone may be suitable for an ileal pouch. Your doctor will discuss which option is best for you based on your health condition.

A subtotal colectomy involves removing the entire colon but leaving the rectum intact.

During a partial colectomy, only the colon is removed, and the rectum is left intact. The remaining parts of the colon may be reattached. This is called an anastomosis.

If an anastomosis isn’t possible, the colon may need to be connected to a hole in the abdominal wall, which would attach to an ostomy bag.

A sigmoid colectomy removes the end of the colon, also called the sigmoid colon.

In a hemicolectomy, the right side or left side of the bowel is removed.