Colorectal Surgery

Colorectal surgery is a treatment option for certain conditions affecting the colon, rectum and anus. At Valley Baptist Physician Network in Rio Grande Valley, TX, our colorectal surgeons care for conditions such as colorectal cancer, polyps, diverticulitis and inflammatory bowel disease. We offer surgical and nonsurgical options, including minimally invasive procedures when appropriate, to address your specific needs.

What Is Colorectal Surgery?

Colorectal surgery refers to procedures performed to treat diseases and conditions that affect the colon and rectum, which are parts of the digestive system. The colon, also known as the large intestine, absorbs water and holds waste until it is expelled from the body. The rectum is the final portion of the colon, which stores waste before it exits through the anus.

Colorectal surgery aims to address a range of conditions, including colorectal cancer, polyps, diverticulitis and inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Depending on the condition, surgery may involve removing part or all of the colon or rectum. Sometimes, an opening will be created for waste to leave the body through a stoma. These surgeries can be performed using traditional open methods or minimally invasive techniques, depending on the specific case and condition of the patient.

Why Am I Seeing a Colorectal Surgeon?

You may be referred to a colorectal surgeon if you are experiencing issues related to the colon, rectum or anus. These can include conditions like colorectal cancer, polyps, inflammatory bowel diseases (such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis), diverticulitis or other digestive disorders. Seeing a colorectal surgeon doesn’t necessarily mean you will need surgery right away. In fact, colorectal surgeons are experts in both surgical and non-surgical treatments for these conditions. 

During your consultation, the surgeon will review your medical history, symptoms and any previous tests or treatments you’ve had. They might recommend further diagnostic tests, such as a colonoscopy or imaging, to understand your condition better. For instance, patients with colorectal cancer may be evaluated for rectal or colon cancer surgery.

How Is Colorectal Surgery Done?

Before surgery, your surgeon will provide detailed instructions to help prepare your body for the procedure. This often includes a special diet and a “bowel prep” to clean out your colon, which may involve laxatives or enemas. You might also undergo tests, such as blood work, a colonoscopy or imaging studies, to help the surgeon plan the surgery. 

Your surgeon will discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure and what to expect. Sometimes, you may need to stop certain medications, such as blood thinners or anti-inflammatory drugs, ahead of time. If necessary, your surgeon may also recommend that you quit smoking or arrange help for your recovery at home.

Here’s a general step-by-step of what to expect from colon and rectal surgery:

1. Before the surgery begins, you will be given anesthesia. Most colorectal surgeries are performed under general anesthesia, meaning you will be asleep and pain-free during the procedure. 

2. Depending on the type of surgery, the surgeon will either make one long incision for open surgery or several smaller incisions for minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopic or robotic surgery. These smaller incisions allow the use of special instruments and a camera to guide the procedure.

3. The surgeon will locate the diseased portion of the colon or rectum. If the surgery involves cancer, polyps or diseased tissue (such as in cases of diverticulitis or inflammatory bowel disease), this part of the intestine will be removed. Nearby lymph nodes may also be removed for examination, especially if cancer is present.

4. After removing the affected area, the surgeon will reconnect the remaining parts of the colon or rectum to restore normal function. This is called anastomosis. If this is not possible immediately, a temporary or permanent stoma may be created for waste to exit the body through the abdomen (colostomy or ileostomy).

5. Once the surgery is complete, the surgeon will close the incisions with stitches or surgical staples. In minimally invasive surgeries, these incisions are small, which may result in less scarring and a faster recovery. 

After the procedure, you will be taken to the recovery room, where you will be closely monitored as you wake up from anesthesia. Your vital signs will be checked regularly to ensure a smooth recovery from the surgery.

After surgery, you will likely stay in the hospital for several days, depending on the type of surgery and your overall health. Pain management and close monitoring are important parts of your immediate recovery. You may be unable to eat solid foods for a day or two to give your digestive system time to heal.

Your doctor will give you instructions on how to care for your incision, manage any temporary or permanent stoma if necessary and recognize signs of complications. You may need to schedule a follow-up appointment within a couple of weeks to monitor your recovery and address any concerns.

How Long Does Colorectal Surgery Take?

The length of colorectal surgery may vary depending on the type of procedure, the condition being treated and whether the surgery is performed using open or minimally invasive techniques. On average, most colorectal surgeries take between two to four hours to complete. However, more complex cases may take longer, especially if additional steps like creating a stoma or removing lymph nodes are involved. 

How Long Does It Take To Recover From Colorectal Surgery?

After leaving the hospital, most people take about three to six weeks to recover at home. During this time, you will gradually increase your activity level as you feel stronger. Here are some things to expect while recovering at home:

• Managing pain: You will likely experience some pain after surgery, which can be managed with prescribed pain medications. It’s important to take these medications as directed to stay comfortable.
• Caring for incisions: You will need to keep your surgical incisions clean and dry. Your doctor will provide instructions on how to care for your wounds and what signs to watch for that might indicate an infection.
• Diet: Initially, you may need to follow a special diet, starting with liquids and gradually moving to solid foods as your digestive system heals. Your doctor will guide you on the best dietary plan for your recovery.
• Activity level: While you should rest and avoid strenuous activities, gentle movement and walking are encouraged to help improve circulation and prevent complications. Gradually increase your activity based on your feelings and your doctor's advice.
• Managing a stoma: If your surgery involved creating a temporary or permanent stoma (an opening for waste to exit the body), you will receive training on caring for it. Specially trained nurses or therapists can help you learn how to manage a stoma and order the necessary supplies.
• Follow-up appointments: You must attend follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your recovery and address any concerns. These visits are important to ensure that you are healing properly.
• Recognizing complications: It’s important to be aware of signs that may require medical attention, such as unusual pain, fever or excessive swelling at the incision site, or issues with a stoma. If you experience any of these, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Recovering at home may require some adjustments, but with the support of your healthcare team and loved ones, you can navigate this period successfully. Follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully, and reach out if you have any questions or concerns during your recovery.