A colectomy can be effective in stopping or slowing diseases likecolon cancerorinflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

The article looks at the different types of total and partial colectomies, including the conditions they help treat.

It also describes the possible risks of a colectomy and what to expect during recovery.

Surgical operating team performing surgery in modern hospital

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What Conditions Require a Colectomy?

The colon is the longest part of thelarge intestine(bowel).

Typically, the healthy sections of the colon are connected, eliminating the need for an ostomy.

Part or all of the rectum may also be removed in some cases.

Possible Risks of a Colectomy

As with all surgeries, a colectomy poses certain risks.

Full recovery may take anywhere from six to eight weeks.

Yogurt can also help restore “good” bacteria and yeast in your intestine.

How to Find Support

Adapting to an ostomy can take time.

Support can help boost your confidence.

The United Ostomy Association of America offers anonline search toolto connect you with an ostomy support group near you.

Recovery from a colectomy can take up to eight weeks.

Most people who undergo a colectomy can return to the activities they enjoyed before surgery.

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