Two of the most common types of cancer occur in the colon and rectum. To learn about how to remove the diseased portion of the colon and/or rectum, keep reading.
It’s not easy going through colorectal procedures and surgeries. One thing that is comforting is your colorectal surgeon’s required training and experience. The education for the colorectal surgeon specialty requires a minimum of 14 years of education and training before applying for board certification. It’s not an easy process but the doctors that make it are all quality grade physicians. Rest assured you’re in good hands. Listed below you will find local gastroenterologists and colorectal surgeons around Baltimore that can give you more information on colorectal diseases and treatments.
Colon cleansing is a serious requirement before any colorectal surgeries are preformed in order to avoid potential intestinal infection risks. You should have already gone through a colonoscopy or barium enema before the decision for surgery was made. A colostomy is an opening that is made in the colon with surgery. It’s a reversible surgery that could be temporary or permanent depending on condition. After the opening is made, the colon is brought to the surface of the abdomen to allow stools to leave your body. The opening at the surface of the abdomen is called a stoma. The stool leaves the colon through the stoma and drains into a flat, changeable, watertight bag or pouch that’s attached to the skin with an adhesive. There are different types of colostomy bags so talk to your doctor about which one is best for you. Listed below you will find local gastroenterologists around Baltimore that can answer all your questions and give you more information.
A colostomy may be made as a temporary measure, to allow more time for the colon or rectum to heal. After a period of time, the intestine can be reattached and the colostomy closed. However, about 15% of patients with colorectal cancer have a permanent colostomy.
