Total colectomy

Total colectomy is a surgery that removes the entire colon, from the small intestine to the rectum. Then the healthy ends of the small intestine and the rectum are sewed together.

This is an extensive operation although some surgeons are already starting to do it by laparoscopy.

It is often recommended to treat advanced Ulcerative Colitis (a condition that causes chronic colorectal inflammation and ulcers), or as prophylactic measure for FAP patients, who carry almost 100% chance of colorectal cancer.

Most people recover well from the surgery. Patients start on a liquid-based diet but progressively go back to solid food. After some recovery time, the individual can go back to his/her regular life; participate in most activities (sports, travel, outdoor activities) and return to their professional life.

It is, however, common to start having multiple stools per day (4 to 6) although there are exercises and medication that can help.

Sometimes the colectomy also involves the removal of the rectum, in which case is called proctocolectomy.