The Type of Colon Surgery Depends on the Location of the Tumor

The type of colon surgery that is performed is dependent on the location of the tumor within the colon. If the tumor is located on the right side of the colon, also known as the ascending colon, then a right colectomy is performed. For tumors located in the descending colon, a left colectomy is performed. The sigmoid colon is a portion of the descending colon that gets its name because it has an “S” shape, and in such cases, a sigmoid colectomy is done to remove the cancer in this area.

After a portion of the colon is removed, the two ends of the colon are put back together. Most patients will have some irregularity in the bowel function immediately after surgery, but this will ultimately return to normal.

A subtotal colectomy is required in certain cases, which is when the majority of the colon is removed and the rectum is left behind. This may have a greater impact on bowel function after surgery. However, many patients are able to adapt to the loss of this amount of colon.

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