Rectosigmoidectomy

Rectosigmoidectomy: what is it and how is it performed?

A rectosigmoidectomy is a surgical procedure in which the rectum and sigmoid colon are removed. This operation can be prescribed in case of various diseases such as cancer, diverticulosis, inflammatory bowel disease and others.

The rectosigmoidectomy procedure is performed under general anesthesia and the surgeon makes a small incision in the lower abdomen. The rectum and sigmoid colon are then separated from surrounding tissues and vessels and removed. After this, the surgeon connects the remaining part of the colon to the anus to allow the normal passage of stool.

Typically, a rectosigmoidectomy is performed in a hospital and can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on the complexity of the surgery and your recovery needs.

Although rectosigmoidectomy can be an effective treatment for many bowel diseases, it can also have some unwanted side effects. Some of these may include vascular and nerve damage, bleeding, infection, and bowel problems.

Overall, a rectosigmoidectomy is a serious procedure that requires careful examination and discussion with your doctor. However, in some cases, this may be the only treatment option for patients with bowel disease.