Sigmoidectomy

Of the many tortuous parts of the digestive system, the sigmoid (Colon) is one of the last stations through which food passes. It is located in the lower left quadrant of the abdomen, and is considered the fourth and final part of the colon. On the other hand, the sigmoid connects to the rectum.

Sigmoidectomy is used to treat various diseases in which it is involved. For other diseases, extensive removal of additional intestinal parts is required, such as colon resection (colectomy).

When should a sigmoid resection be performed?

Sigmoidectomy is used as a treatment for both benign and malignant sigmoid diseases. For example, surgery can be used to treat recurrent cases of colitis in the colon, which tend to appear in the sigmoid.

The surgery can also be used to remove a malignant tumor in the area, as part of the cancer treatment.

The course of the surgery

The sigmoid resection can be performed in an open approach - through a single incision in the abdominal wall - or via a laparoscopic approach - with the help of tiny incisions and under the guidance of a special camera.

After exposing the abdominal organs and locating the sigmoid, the surgeon removes the lower left part of the colon. Oncological surgeries sometimes remove adjacent tissues, including several lymph nodes. The extracted tissues are sent for a biopsy laboratory examination  (pathology).

In most cases, the remaining stump will be attached (adjoined) directly to the rectum in place of the sigmoid. In special cases, the colon (large intestine) should be given recovery time, otherwise the attachment cannot be performed. In these cases a temporary or permanent stoma is placed, respectively. A stoma is a sac in the abdominal wall through which intestinal functions drain.

The operation is performed under general anesthesia and lasts 2-4 hours.

Preparation before surgery

Prior to sigmoid resection, an evaluation should be performed by a surgeon with colorectal expertise, and, if necessary, an oncological evaluation. In addition, an anesthesiologist must be evaluated and fasted according to the staff's instructions.

Recovery after sigmoidectomy

During the operation, you will be connected to various monitoring and auxiliary means, including a urinary catheter and drains in the area of ​​the operation. During hospitalization, these tubes will gradually come out as your condition improves and the area heals. It is usually possible to return home after 3-4 days, but the recovery rate varies between patients.

You will receive detailed instructions on the stages of returning to your routine, including returning to a normal diet and light exercise.

The results of the pathology usually return after 2-3 weeks. They may at times affect the continuation of treatment, especially if complementary oncological treatments are required. Accordingly, you will have a plan for further medical follow-up.

Possible complications

Bleeding or infection may develop after surgery. A leak from the adjoining  between the large intestine and the rectum can be a medical emergency. Paralysis of bowel function (ileus) can lead to temporary constipation, and sometimes even prolonged constipation.

Damage to nearby structures is a rare but possible complication. Occasionally there may be impaired sexual function or control of the urinary tract.

Occasionally, The impression of a bowel injury during surgery can lead to a stoma placement (see explanation above), even when this was not in the original plan.