Information For Colorectal Surgery Patients
Unfortunately, there are many different types of cancer that a person may develop. While individuals often think of lung or skin cancers, the digestive system can also be prone to developing this condition. For these patients, colorectal surgery may be required to treat the condition.
What Occurs When You Undergo Colorectal Surgery?
During colorectal surgery, the surgeon will make an incision so that they can remove the diseased portion of the digestive tract. Once the cancerous sections of the intestines are extracted, the remaining sides will be connected together. While this is an invasive and major surgical procedure, it can be the only option for removing cancerous intestinal tissue before it is able to spread. Fortunately, individuals have enough intestines so that removal of portions of them will have minimal long-term impacts on their overall health.
How Do Patients Prepare For Colorectal Surgery?
Prior to undergoing this surgery, patients will need to take a few steps to prepared. In addition to the pre-surgery medical evaluation, it will likely be required for the patient to avoid eating for the day prior to the surgery. Also, patients may need to administer enemas to help clean their colon prior to this surgery. There may be additional steps that are needed, but your surgeon will cover them with you during the pre-operation consultation. Taking notes during this meeting is advisable as it will prevent you from forgetting potentially important details.
What Is Involved With Recovering From Colorectal Surgery?
The recovery from colorectal surgery can be fairly intensive. Patients can expect to be hospitalized for at least several days. Additional follow-up visits will be needed to monitor for complications, such as infections. Due to the high number of bacteria in the intestinal system, the risk of infection can be high, which makes being diligent about attending these check-ups essential. As a result of the patient's shortened digestive tract, there will also be dietary changes that will need to be followed. During the early phase of the recovery period, this may involve being on a water diet so that the intestinal tract can mend.
If you have been referred for colorectal surgery, it can be easy to be concerned, stressed or fearful of this procedure. While this is an invasive procedure, it is fairly routine for the professional that administer it. Becoming an informed patient prior to this procedure can reduce the stress of not knowing what to expect during and after this procedure. Contact a clinic, like Surgery Group SC, for more help.