Understanding Colorectal Surgery: Procedures and Recovery

What Is Colorectal Surgery?

Colorectal surgery involves procedures to treat a range of conditions affecting the colon, rectum, and anus. Depending on the case, it may be performed using minimally invasive methods such as laparoscopic and robotic surgery, or through traditional open techniques.

Why Is Colorectal Surgery Performed?

The main objectives of colorectal cancer surgery include removing diseased tissue, alleviating symptoms, preventing complications, and improving the patient's overall health and quality of life. Colorectal surgeons may recommend this type of surgery for conditions such as:

• Colorectal cancer
• Colon polyps
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Diverticulitis
• Bowel obstruction
• Rectal prolapse

What Are the Different Types of Colorectal Surgery?

The specific colorectal surgery required varies depending on the condition's nature, severity, and location. Common procedures include:

• Colectomy

  This is the surgical removal of a portion or the entire colon, with the extent determined by the disease. It is commonly performed for colon cancer, diverticulitis, and IBD.

• Colostomy

  This procedure creates an opening (stoma) in the abdominal wall for the colon to expel waste into a colostomy bag. Depending on the condition and surgery performed, the stoma can be temporary or permanent.

• Rectal Resection

  This surgery removes part or all of the rectum, typically to treat rectal cancer or advanced rectal disease. In some cases, the bowel is reconnected to preserve normal bowel function.

• Anal Fistula Surgery

  This surgery involves various surgical techniques to treat persistent or infected anal fistulas. These fistulas are small “tunnels” that form between the anal canal and the skin near the anus.

• Haemorrhoidectomy

  This procedure removes large or persistent haemorrhoids when other treatments fail. It is often used for grade III or IV haemorrhoids that cause pain, bleeding, or prolapse.

• Proctectomy

  This surgery removes all or part of the rectum. It is commonly used to treat rectal cancer or IBD.

• Proctocolectomy

  This procedure surgically removes both the colon and rectum. It is typically performed to treat conditions like severe ulcerative colitis, familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), or colorectal cancer.

How Should You Prepare for Colorectal Surgery?

Before colorectal surgery, patients must follow specific preoperative protocols to ensure a successful outcome and a smoother recovery. These essential preparation steps involve dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, physical preparation, medication modifications, and thorough bowel preparation.

What to Expect After Colorectal Surgery

Following colorectal surgery, the patient is required to stay in the hospital for 3 to 7 days for monitoring and to receive detailed postoperative care instructions before discharge. It is common for patients to experience temporary side effects like pain, discomfort, bleeding, changes in bowel function, fatigue, and nausea.

Expect a gradual return to activity, with a physiotherapist often guiding early mobilisation and walking. Diet will also progress step-by-step, starting with clear liquids and advancing to a regular diet. Furthermore, regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the patient’s recovery.

Post-Surgery Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations

Following surgery, adopting specific diet and lifestyle changes is crucial for supporting healing, preventing complications, and restoring optimal bowel function. Key changes for a smoother recovery include:

Dietary Guidelines

Following surgery, your diet will likely progress through stages to aid healing and ease digestion:

• Start with a clear liquid diet: This is easily digestible and helps maintain hydration initially.
• Transition to a soft/low-residue diet: This minimises strain on your digestive system as it recovers.
• Gradually increase fibre intake: Slowly reintroducing fibre promotes regular bowel function.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day prevents dehydration and aids recovery.
• Eat small, frequent meals: This can be easier on your digestive system than large meals.
• Chew food thoroughly: This aids digestion and nutrient absorption.
• Limit caffeine and alcohol: These can irritate the digestive system and interfere with healing.

Lifestyle Modifications

To support your recovery and long-term health after surgery, consider these lifestyle modifications:

• Quit smoking: Smoking impairs healing and increases the risk of complications.
• Limit alcohol consumption: Alcohol can interfere with healing and certain medications.
• Maintain a healthy weight: This reduces strain on your body and promotes overall well-being.
• Manage stress: High stress levels can impact recovery; explore relaxation techniques like deep breathing and meditation to help manage stress.
• Take all prescribed medications as directed: Adherence is crucial for managing pain and preventing complications.
• Monitor bowel movements: Pay attention to frequency, consistency, and any discomfort, and report changes to your doctor.
• Adhere to all follow-up appointments: These are vital for monitoring your progress and addressing any concerns.

Key Takeaways

Colorectal surgery offers lasting relief from a broad range of lower digestive tract conditions, including chronic illnesses and colorectal cancer. While recovery requires time and commitment to dietary and lifestyle adjustments, this often allows patients to return to a more active and fulfilling life, free from debilitating symptoms.

If you are experiencing a colorectal issue or are considering surgery, we encourage you to contact us. Our skilled colorectal surgeon in Singapore offers thorough diagnosis and advanced surgical treatments. Call us at 6443 1005 today, and let us guide you toward a smoother recovery and a healthier tomorrow.