English
Small Bowel Resection Surgery

Small Bowel Resection

Small Bowel Resection Surgery

A Small Bowel Resection involves the surgical removal of damaged or dysfunctional sections of the small intestine. The procedure can vary in scope, targeting either smaller, localised areas or larger sections depending on the extent of the damage. Despite the complexity of the small intestine, which has an average length of 22 feet and comprises multiple tissue layers, removing a portion usually does not affect overall intestinal function. The remaining sections of the small intestine can typically compensate for the removed portion, ensuring continued nutrient absorption.

This type of surgery is often employed to treat conditions such as tumours and strictures that hinder intestinal function. Post-operative care includes dietary guidance and monitoring for complications to ensure proper recovery. Long-term follow-up is recommended with regular assessments of intestinal health and monitoring for any recurrence of the initial condition to ensure optimal outcomes.
 

Experience world-class healthcare at Manipal Hospitals. Our expert team of doctors and state-of-the-art facilities ensure personalized and advanced treatments. Take the first step towards wellness. Book an appointment today.

FAQ's

Patients suffering from serious gastrointestinal disorders, such as polyps, tumours, and small intestinal cancer, may benefit from Small Bowel Resection Surgery. It is also appropriate for long-term inflammatory gastrointestinal problems like Crohn's disease, as well as congenital conditions like Meckel's diverticulum and malrotation. This operation may also be necessary for illnesses such as necrotising enterocolitis and incarcerated abdominal hernias. To restore intestinal health and function, Small Bowel Resection is also necessary for small bowel obstruction, including intussusception, and traumatic injuries that result in small intestine perforation.
 

When conservative therapy for gastrointestinal disorders such as blockage or small intestine cancer is ineffective, a Small Bowel Resection becomes necessary. In critical situations, such as life-threatening blockages, prompt surgical intervention is essential. This procedure ensures the health and well-being of the patient by treating diseases that are not improved by medication or dietary adjustments. Additionally, problems with the large intestine (colon) may require a Colectomy along with a Small Bowel Resection.
 

The procedure restores normal function to the remaining healthy bowel by removing the source of obstruction or aberrant growths. By eliminating unhealthy or damaged tissue, Small Bowel Resection restores intestinal function and avoids consequences like malnourishment. This improves quality of life by facilitating appropriate nutrient absorption and reducing symptoms related to gastrointestinal disorders. 

Additionally, resection surgery promotes long-term health by halting the course of the disease and its associated problems. Following surgery, patients usually have better digestive function and symptom reduction, which improves their overall well-being. Consistent follow-up care ensures optimal gut health.
 

In more severe gastrointestinal disorders, adjacent tissues may need to be removed in addition to the small intestine. For example, an Ileocecal Resection may be necessary for people with problems from Crohn's disease. This procedure could include the removal of appendix, cecum, and ileum excisions. 

The goal of these thorough resections is to treat the underlying disease processes and prevent more problems. Monitoring recovery and ensuring the success of the surgical procedure requires routine follow-up care.
 

Depending on the necessity, any general or colorectal surgeon can do Small Bowel Resection procedures. Resections performed by general surgeons are appropriate for urgent surgical cases such as intestinal blockages and severe trauma. Specialising in difficult ailments of the colon, rectum, and anus, colorectal surgeons treat patients with advanced gastrointestinal diseases as well as congenital disorders. The surgeon of choice is determined by the intricacy of the patient's condition and their medical demands.
 

The surgeon may use sutures or staples to perform an anastomosis, a procedure that reconnects healthy intestine ends after removing dead tissue. An Ileostomy can be required if there is insufficient healthy tissue for connection. This entails making a stoma on the exterior of the abdomen and rerouting the contents of the intestines into a bag attached to the stoma. Depending on the state of the patient, Ileostomies can be either temporary or permanent. To ensure appropriate healing and adjustment, patients get instruction and support in managing their Ileostomies. 
 

A few days in the hospital are what to anticipate following a Small Bowel Resection. At first, feeding tubes are used to deliver nutrition while restricting oral intake. You will gradually switch to soft foods and oral fluids as your recovery advances. It is advised to relax for a few days following discharge and to exercise occasionally to avoid blood clots. Making follow-up meetings with your surgeon will help to ensure a smooth recovery process by tracking your progress and addressing any problems.
 

Although recovery following a Small Bowel Resection usually takes many months, most patients return to their regular activities in a matter of weeks. Monitoring for problems and progressively restoring oral intake is part of the initial post-operative treatment. Early in their recuperation, patients may encounter dietary changes, weariness, and discomfort. Energy levels rise and physical activity levels rise as healing advances. Follow-up visits address any issues and make sure the recovery is proceeding as planned. In general, recuperation times vary depending on personal characteristics, including health and surgical complexity.