Your Guide to Colon Resections in Sarasota: From Diagnosis to Recovery

Medically reviewed by Dr. Sergio Hernandez, MD FACS

Board-Certified General Surgeon

Sarasota & Lakewood Ranch, Florida

The colon (large intestine) plays a crucial role in fluid balance, gut health, and waste removal. Although it doesn't digest food, its proper function is essential for maintaining hydration, electrolyte levels, and a healthy internal environment. The colon is approximately 5 to 6 feet long. It begins at the cecum, where the small intestine ends, and extends to the rectum, where stool is stored before elimination.

A colon resection—also known as a colectomy—is a surgical procedure to remove part of the colon (large intestine). This operation may be recommended for patients with conditions such as colon cancer, diverticulitis, polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, or bowel obstruction. While the idea of bowel surgery can feel overwhelming, knowing what to expect can ease anxiety and support a smoother recovery.

Why Might You Need a Colon Resection in Sarasota?

Colon resections are performed to treat or manage various conditions, including:

• Colon cancer

• Diverticulitis (repeated colon infection)

• Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis

• Large polyps that can't be removed during colonoscopy

• Bowel obstruction or perforation

• Bleeding or trauma

  
  

Depending on the condition, the surgery may be planned (elective) or done in an emergency setting.

Types of Colon Resections

Colon resections vary depending on which section is removed:

• Right Hemicolectomy – removal of the right side of the colon

• Left Hemicolectomy – removal of the left side

• Sigmoid Colectomy – removal of the sigmoid colon

• Transverse Colectomy – removal of the middle portion

• Total Colectomy – removal of the entire colon (rare)

  
  

The remaining sections are usually reconnected in a process called an anastomosis. In some rare cases, a temporary or permanent colostomy may be needed.

Minimally Invasive vs. Open Surgery

Laparoscopic or Robotic-Assisted Surgery

• The surgeon makes 4-5 small incisions and a larger incision where the specimen is removed. The abdomen is filled with CO2, and small instruments are used to mobilize the colon from its attachments. An anastomosis is fashioned inside the body; the bowel is connected to establish continuity.

• The procedure may take 2-4 hours, depending on difficulty.

• A 2-3 day hospital stay is typical for pain control and bowel monitoring.

• This procedure is characterized by less pain, faster recovery, and decreased risk of infection.

  
  

Open Colectomy

• Involves a larger abdominal incision.

• The procedure may be slightly faster compared to a minimally invasive approach.

• Longer hospital stay, typically 4-5 days.

• May be necessary for complicated or emergency cases.

  
  

Your surgeon will recommend the best approach based on your condition, anatomy, and overall health.

How to Prepare for a Colon Resection in Sarasota

Preparation may include:

• Bowel Prep: Cleansing your colon with laxatives similar to a colonoscopy preparation. It usually involves antibiotics to reduce bacterial load and decrease the risk of infection at the anastomosis.

• Clear Liquid Diet: A day before surgery.

• Fasting After Midnight.

• Stopping certain medications (like blood thinners, weight loss, or NSAIDs).

• Pre-op Labs or Imaging: To assess readiness.

  
  

Always follow your surgeon's instructions carefully and ask questions about what to expect.

What Happens During the Procedure?

1. Anesthesia: You’ll be under general anesthesia during the operation.

2. Incisions Made: Either small (laparoscopic) or larger (open).

3. Colon Resection: The affected portion of the colon is removed.

4. Reconnection: Remaining ends are reconnected, or a colostomy is created.

5. Closure: Incisions are closed with sutures, staples, or surgical glue.

   
   

Recovery After Colon Resection

• Hospital Stay: Typically 2–5 days for laparoscopic, longer for open surgeries.

• Pain Management: Multimodal pain control with medications targeting different mechanisms for pain management.

• Diet: Gradual advancement of diet from clear liquids to solid food.

• Bowel Function: May take a few days to normalize. Most people experience diarrhea initially, which may last about a month. A bloody initial bowel movement is also common.

• Activity: Light walking is encouraged; avoid heavy lifting for 4–6 weeks.

  
  

Follow-up appointments help monitor healing, pathology results, and long-term outcomes.

Potential Risks and Complications

As with any surgery, colon resection carries some risks:

• Infection or bleeding

• Leak from the bowel connection (anastomotic leak)

• Blood clots

• Temporary changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation)

• Hernia at the incision site

  
  

Prompt recognition of symptoms like fever, worsening pain, or abnormal drainage is essential. Contact your surgeon if anything feels off.

When to Call Your Surgeon

Call your provider if you experience:

• Fever over 101°F

• Persistent vomiting or nausea

• Redness, swelling, or discharge from the incision

• No bowel movement for several days

• Severe abdominal pain

  
  

Final Thoughts

A colon resection in Sarasota can be a life-saving procedure and significantly improve your quality of life. Whether you're managing chronic disease or facing a new diagnosis, understanding the process can help you approach surgery with more confidence. At Intercoastal General Surgery, Dr. Hernandez and our expert team are here to guide you through each step—from preparation to full recovery.

If you’ve been advised to consider colon surgery or have questions about your options, schedule a consultation today. We’re committed to providing compassionate, expert care tailored to your needs.