Types of Colon Resections

In colon resection, a part of the colon is taken out (resected) during surgery. The most common types of colorectal resection are listed below. Your surgeon will explain the one that is right for you.

Outline of adult abdomen showing large and small intestines. Shaded area on right colon shows right hemicolectomy. Outline of adult abdomen showing colon and small intestine connected after right hemicolectomy.

Outline of adult abdomen showing large and small intestines. Shaded area on left colon shows left hemicolectomy. Outline of abdomen showing transverse colon attached to sigmoid colon after left hemicolectomy.

Outline of adult abdomen showing large and small intestines. Shaded area on sigmoid colon shows sigmoidectomy. Outline of adult abdomen showing descending colon attached to rectum after sigmoidectomy.

Outline of adult abdomen showing large and small intestines. Shaded area on sigmoid colon and rectum shows low anterior resection. Outline of adult abdomen showing descending colon attached to rectum after low anterior resection.

Outline of adult abdomen showing large and small intestines. Shaded area on sigmoid colon, rectum, and anus shows abdominal perineal resection. Outline of abdomen showing stoma after abdominal perineal resection.

Colostomy

After certain types of surgery, the colon and rectum may need to be kept clear of stool while they heal. In other cases, the rectum has been taken out. Or it can’t be reconnected to the rest of the colon. In either case, you need a colostomy. This makes a new opening in the belly (abdomen) so waste can leave the body. You may need the new opening for a short time, or permanently. If you had a colostomy during your surgery, your healthcare providers will help you learn how to care for it.