Intestinal Resection Surgery (Bowel Resection Surgery)

Overview

Intestinal Resection Surgery is also known as Bowel Resection Surgery it is a medical procedure to remove a damaged or diseased part of the intestine. It is commonly performed on the small intestine or large intestine to treat various conditions like intestinal blockages, infections, tumors or inflammatory diseases. After the unhealthy section is removed the remaining healthy parts of the intestine are reconnected to ensure proper digestion and bowel movement.

Why is Intestinal Resection Surgery (Bowel Resection Surgery) Required?

Common reasons for surgery on the small intestine include:

• Intestinal Obstruction: Blockage in the intestine that prevents normal digestion.
• Cancerous or Non Cancerous Tumors: Abnormal growths that may require removal.
• Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD): Conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis that damage the intestine.
• Infections or Severe Injuries: Trauma or infections that cause tissue death.
• Diverticulitis: Inflammation in the intestine leading to painful abscesses.
• Bleeding in the Intestine: Chronic bleeding that does not stop with medications.

Key Advantages of Intestinal Resection Surgery (Bowel Resection Surgery)

Undergoing intestinal resection surgery has several benefits:

• Improves Digestive Health: Removes diseased parts ensuring smoother digestion.
• Eliminates Blockages: Helps food and waste pass through the intestines normally.
• Prevents Further Complications: Stops infections and prevents further damage.
• Enhances Quality of Life: Reduces pain, discomfort and digestive issues.
• Effective Treatment for Cancer & Tumors: Removes dangerous growths and prevents cancer from spreading.

How Should You Prepare Before Undergoing Intestinal Resection Surgery (Bowel Resection Surgery)?

Here is how you can get ready:

• Medical Evaluation: Your doctor will review your health history and conduct tests like blood tests, imaging scans and colonoscopy.
• Dietary Adjustments: You may be advised to follow a low fiber diet or switch to liquid foods before surgery.
• Fasting: You will be required to stop eating and drinking a few hours before the procedure.
• Bowel Preparation: A bowel cleansing solution may be given to clear your intestines before surgery.
• Medication Review: Some medications such as blood thinners may need to be stopped before surgery.

How is Intestinal Resection Surgery (Bowel Resection Surgery) Performed?

Surgical resection of the small intestine or large intestine is performed using two primary methods:

1. Open Surgery (Traditional Method)

A large incision is made in the abdomen to access the intestine.

The diseased portion is carefully removed and the remaining ends are stitched together.

2. Minimally Invasive Surgery (Laparoscopic Method)

Small incisions are made and a camera is inserted to guide the surgery.

Less pain, faster recovery and minimal scarring compared to open surgery.

After removing the affected part the healthy ends of the intestine are either stitched together (anastomosis) or in some cases a stoma (colostomy or ileostomy) is created if temporary diversion is required.

What to Expect Before, During, and After the Procedure?

1. Before the Procedure

You will be given general anesthesia to ensure you remain asleep and pain-free during surgery.

The surgical team will prepare your abdomen and mark any areas if a temporary stoma is required.

2. During the Procedure

The surgeon will remove the damaged section of the small intestine or large intestine.

The remaining healthy tissue is reconnected to allow normal digestion.

3. After the Procedure

Hospital Stay: Typically, 3 to 7 days depending on the surgery type.

Pain Management: Medications will be provided to ease discomfort.

Dietary Adjustments: You will be started on liquid foods, gradually progressing to soft foods.

Recovery at Home: Full recovery takes 4 to 6 weeks during which physical activities should be limited.

Risk and Potential Complications

Although intestinal resection surgery is generally safe some risks and complications may occur such as:

• Infection: Surgical site infections may develop.
• Bleeding: Internal bleeding can happen in rare cases.
• Leakage at the Surgical Site: Incomplete healing of the intestinal connection.
• Scar Tissue Formation: May cause bowel obstruction in the future.
• Temporary Digestion Issues: Loose stools or difficulty in absorbing nutrients.

Results / Outcomes

Patients regain normal bowel function within a few weeks.

Pain and discomfort reduce significantly.

Better quality of life, with fewer digestive problems.

Cancer patients may require additional treatments like chemotherapy or radiation.