As a general surgeon, I often find that a key factor in a patient’s successful recovery from bowel resection is their understanding of the process. This knowledge can alleviate concerns and significantly improve outcomes, whether you or a loved one are preparing for this surgery.
What is a bowel resection?
Also known as a colectomy or intestinal resection, bowel resection surgery removes a portion of the small or large intestine. The procedure is performed to treat various conditions, including:
- Colon cancer – Removal of cancerous sections of the colon.
- Diverticulitis – Severe cases may require removing the affected bowel segment.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) – Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can necessitate surgery if medications and other treatments fail.
- Bowel Obstruction – When part of the intestine is blocked and cannot function properly.
- Ischemic Bowel Disease – When the blood supply to the intestines is compromised.
Types of bowel resection surgery and average recovery time
There are three main surgical approaches to bowel resection, each with specific advantages:
- Open Surgery – This traditional method involves a large abdominal incision to access the bowel. It is typically used for complex cases, such as those with extensive disease, such as Crohn’s disease, large tumors, or emergencies where quick access is needed.
- Recovery time is generally longer, with a hospital stay of 5-7 days and a total recovery period of 6-8 weeks.
- Laparoscopic Surgery – Also called minimally invasive surgery, this type of surgery uses small incisions and a camera (laparoscope) to guide the procedure, reducing the damage to the body. It generally results in a quicker recovery, less pain, and reduced scarring.
- Most patients stay in the hospital for 3-5 days and recover fully within 4-6 weeks.
- Robotic-Assisted Surgery – This advanced technique allows for precise movements using robotic arms controlled by the surgeon. It is beneficial for difficult-to-reach areas and delicate procedures requiring high precision and can further enhance the benefits of minimally invasive surgery.
- Recovery times are similar to laparoscopic surgery, though some studies suggest even less postoperative pain and faster return to daily activities.
The decision on which surgical option is best is not made unilaterally by the surgeon. Instead, it is a collaborative process between you and your surgeon. When we review the options with a patient, we consider multiple factors, such as the patient’s condition, the extent of the disease, surgeon expertise, and available medical resources. Your active participation in this process is crucial and can help ensure the best possible outcome.
In some situations, patients may require a temporary or permanent colostomy or ileostomy to allow the body to pass waste while the intestines heal.
Will I need an ostomy bag?
Whether an ostomy bag is needed depends on the location and extent of the bowel resection. A temporary colostomy or ileostomy is sometimes required to allow the intestines to heal correctly.
A colostomy is when a section of the colon is brought to the surface of the abdomen to create an opening (stoma), allowing waste to exit the body into a pouch. An ileostomy is similar but involves the small intestine rather than the colon. Some ostomies are temporary and reversed after healing, while others may be permanent depending on the underlying condition. Your surgeon will discuss this possibility before surgery and provide guidance on ostomy care if necessary. Learn more about ostomies here.
Recovery after bowel resection surgery: what to expect
Immediate Postoperative Period (Hospital Stay)
- Pain Management – It’s important to understand that pain is a normal part of the recovery process and is well-controlled with medication like the following:
- Intravenous (IV) Pain Medication: Strong pain relievers like opioids (e.g., morphine or fentanyl) are used immediately after surgery.
- Epidural or Nerve Blocks: In some cases, a continuous infusion of pain medication is administered near the spinal cord to improve pain control.
- Patient-Controlled Analgesia (PCA): Some patients receive a pump that allows them to self-administer controlled doses of pain medication.
- Transition to Oral Pain Medication: As the patient stabilizes, IV pain meds are reduced, and oral medications like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or lower-dose opioids (e.g., oxycodone) are introduced.
- Diet Progression – Initially, patients receive IV fluids, clear liquids, and soft foods as the bowel heals.
- Early Mobilization – Walking as soon as possible helps prevent complications like blood clots and pneumonia.
- Bowel Function Monitoring – The return of bowel movements is a key sign of recovery.
At-home recovery
We’re in the home stretch now, but first, I highly recommend reviewing a checklist on how to prepare your home before surgery so that once you are home, you can focus on healing.
Once a patient is discharged from the hospital, it can range from a few days to a week after surgery, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the individual’s conditions. The following becomes the to-do list and things to prioritize:
- Dietary Adjustments – A low-fiber diet may be recommended initially to reduce strain on the intestines.
- Activity Restrictions – Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for at least 4-6 weeks.
- Incision Care – Keeping the surgical site clean and dry is essential to prevent infection.
- Signs of Complications – Patients should watch for fever, severe pain, persistent vomiting, or unusual swelling, which may indicate infection or other issues.
Long-term recovery and lifestyle adjustments
Most patients recovering from a bowel resection return to normal activities within a few months. However, dietary and lifestyle changes may be necessary depending on the underlying condition. Patients who had surgery due to inflammatory bowel disease or cancer may require ongoing medical management and follow-up care.
When to contact your surgeon
It’s time to reach out to your surgeon if you experience:
- Increased pain that is not relieved with medication.
- Signs of infection include redness, swelling, or drainage at the incision site.
- Changes in bowel habits, such as persistent diarrhea or constipation.
- Difficulty eating or significant weight loss.
FAQs about bowel resection recovery
- How long does it take to recover from a bowel resection?
Most patients recover in 8 weeks, but complete healing may take several months, depending on the type of surgery and the individual.
- Will I be able to poop after bowel resection surgery?
Yes, bowel movements should resume for most patients after surgery. You may experience a change in the quantity, frequency, and consistency during the weeks following surgery, but this is a normal part of the healing process.
- Will I need a stoma after surgery?
Most patients will not need a stoma or will only need a temporary one to allow the intestines to heal. Depending on the severity of the disease and the surgery, a permanent stoma may be necessary.
- What foods should I eat after bowel surgery?
Stick to a low-fiber diet initially (e.g., white rice, bananas, applesauce), then gradually reintroduce fiber-rich foods based on your surgeon’s recommendations.
- How bad is the pain after the surgery?
Pain is generally moderate to severe during the first few days but will gradually improve.
Final thoughts
Bowel resection is a major surgery, but with proper care and attention, recovery can be smooth. As a surgeon, I aim to ensure patients understand what to expect and how to optimize their healing process. If you or a loved one are preparing for this procedure, ask questions and work closely with your medical team to achieve the best possible outcome.
To learn more about surgical options at NGMC, visit nghs.com/surgery.