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Bowel resection

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Understanding Bowel Resection

A bowel resection is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of a part of the large or small intestine due to disease, injury, or obstruction. This procedure is often necessary to improve a patient’s quality of life, alleviate symptoms, or prevent life-threatening complications when the bowel has been affected by conditions such as cancer, Crohn’s disease, diverticulitis or bowel obstruction.

Bowel resection surgery plays a critical role in treating several gastrointestinal conditions that affect the intestines. The procedure may involve removing sections of the small or large intestine (colon). This surgery can significantly improve symptoms and restore digestive function, but it also requires careful preoperative and postoperative planning to ensure the best outcomes.

Bowel Resection in Australia

In Australia, bowel disease is a leading health concern. Colorectal cancer, one of the primary reasons for bowel resection, is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in both men and women. Annually, over 15,000 Australians are diagnosed with colorectal cancer, with rates higher among those aged 50 and above. Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, are also rising in prevalence, impacting the lives of over 75,000 Australians. For many patients with these conditions, bowel resection surgery is a crucial treatment that can significantly improve their quality of life or potentially save lives.

Symptoms Indicating the Need for Bowel Resection

Symptoms that might lead to a recommendation for bowel resection include:

  • Persistent abdominal pain or cramps
  • Chronic diarrhea or constipation
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Blood in the stool
  • Fatigue or anemia
  • Obstruction symptoms, such as vomiting or bloating

These symptoms are common in conditions like colorectal cancer, IBD, and severe diverticulitis and warrant thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider.

Causes of Bowel Disease Requiring Resection

The need for bowel resection may arise from several conditions, including:

  • Colorectal cancer: Tumors in the colon or rectum may necessitate removal.
  • Diverticulitis: Severe or recurrent cases that lead to abscesses or blockages.
  • Crohn’s disease: In cases of significant inflammation or scar tissue formation.
  • Intestinal obstructions: Caused by tumours, adhesions, or twisting of the bowel.

Diagnostic Tests for Bowel Conditions

To determine whether bowel resection is necessary, a range of diagnostic tests may be performed, such as:

  • Colonoscopy: To examine the large intestine and detect abnormalities.
  • CT Scan: Provides detailed images of the intestines to locate blockages or tumours.
  • MRI: Used to assess soft tissue in IBD and some cancers.
  • Blood tests: To check for anemia, inflammation, or signs of infection.

Possible Complications of Bowel Resection

While bowel resection is generally safe, complications may arise, such as:

  • Infection at the surgical site
  • Leakage from the resection site
  • Bowel obstruction
  • Blood clots or bleeding
  • Long-term changes in bowel habits

Discussing these risks with a surgeon can help prepare patients and allow for proactive management if any complications occur.

Treatment Options and Surgery Types

Bowel resection may be performed using:

  • Laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery: Involving smaller incisions for quicker recovery.
  • Open surgery: A more extensive approach when the condition is complex or widespread.

The specific approach will depend on the underlying condition, the area of the bowel affected, and the patient’s overall health.

 

For more information or to book a consultation with Dr Craven, please call us on (03) 9852 3777 or email us at info@dralexcraven.com.au.

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Dr Alex Craven Provides Specialised Care In

Surgery for Obesity

Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery

General Surgery

Endoscopy

Weight and Obesity Control

Frequently Asked Questions

Recovery time varies, with laparoscopic procedures typically requiring a shorter recovery (2-4 weeks) than open surgery, which may take up to 8 weeks.

In some cases, a temporary or permanent stoma (opening on the abdomen) may be necessary if large sections of the bowel are removed.

Your doctor may recommend a gradual reintroduction of fibre and other specific dietary modifications to support healing and digestion.

For some conditions, such as localised cancer or severe diverticulitis, resection may be curative. However, for chronic conditions like Crohn’s disease, it may help manage symptoms but not cure the disease.

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