Robotic Colectomy in Southfield, Novi, Livonia, or Howell, MI
A colectomy is a procedure to remove part of the colon, or the entire colon.
The procedure is classified into several different types, which are:
- A total colectomy, to remove the entire colon
- A partial colectomy, to remove part of the colon
- A hemicolectomy, to remove the right or left section of the colon
- A proctocolectomy to remove both the colon and the rectum
A colectomy may be recommended to treat:
- Uncontrolled bleeding in the colon
- A bowel obstruction, causing a blocked colon
- Cancer of the colon
- Crohn’s disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Diverticulitis
Traditional colectomy surgery involves either using an open technique, or laparoscopically. Now, there is a third option–robotic colectomy.
What to Expect During a Robotic Colectomy Procedure
During a robotic colectomy procedure, your surgeon will perform your surgery using small, wristed instruments. The movements of your surgeon’s hands rotate the instruments, providing precise incisions. Robotic colectomy surgery also uses high-definition imaging and injected dye, to give your surgeon a clearer, more precise view of your colon and blood flow in your colon.
Robotic colectomy provides major benefits when compared to open or laparoscopic surgery. Consider that robotic surgery:
- Is much less invasive, because the surgery uses tiny incisions, with much less bleeding
- Is easier to recover from, so you will have a shorter hospital stay
- Often has fewer complications and a lower risk of infection
Patients who have a robotic colectomy typically stay in the hospital from 3 to 5 days and recover at home for 1 to 2 weeks. During recovery, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s directions, which include not lifting anything over 10 pounds and avoiding intense exercise. Walking is usually fine but ask your surgeon first.