Your Notifications
All done, no notifications

Hemicolectomy: Symptoms, Classification, Diagnosis & Recovery

A hemicolectomy is a surgical procedure classified as a type of colectomy, involving the removal of a portion of the colon (large intestine). In a right hemicolectomy, the right side of the colon is excised, encompassing the caecum, appendix, ascending colon, and a portion of the transverse colon. Conversely, in a left hemicolectomy, the left side of the colon is removed, including a portion of the transverse and descending colon.

Some of the conditions that require complete colectomy or hemicolectomy surgery include the following:

  • Colon cancer
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Blockage of the colon
  • Precancerous polyps
  • Hereditary polyps
  • Benign tumors
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • Gastrointestinal bleeding

Types:

Following are the different types of Hemicolectomy:

  • Right Hemicolectomy: In this type of surgery right side of the colon is removed, including the Cecum, the ascending colon.
  • Left Hemicolectomy: In this type of surgery removal of the left side of the colon.
  • Transverse Colectomy: In this type of hemicolectomy the transverse colon is removed
  • Sigmoid colectomy: This type of surgery involves the removal of the sigmoid colon.

These are some of the signs and symptoms patients suffer before undergoing Hemicolectomy

  • Abdominal Pain
  • Changes in Bowel Habits
  • Rectal Bleeding
  • Unexplained Weight Loss
  • Abdominal Distension
  • Rectal Pain or Discomfort
  • Nausea and Vomiting
  • Fatigue

The following are the diagnostic Tests

  • Colonoscopy
  • CT Scan (Computed Tomography)
  • Blood Tests
  • Physical Examination
  • Imaging Studies
  • Biopsy

Following laparoscopic surgery, a hospital stay of two to three days may be necessary, while open surgery may require three to seven days. During the initial 24 hours post-surgery, intravenous fluids will be administered, and oral intake will be restricted. Clear liquids may be introduced after 24 hours. A bladder catheter will be inserted temporarily and removed after a few days. Sutures and staples on the abdomen will typically be removed around 14 days post-surgery. Heavy lifting and strenuous activities should be avoided for up to six weeks. Spicy foods should be avoided, and small, frequent meals are recommended. Walking is encouraged within 24 to 48 hours post-procedure to prevent respiratory complications. The discharge will be based on recovery progress and evidence of bowel function. Follow-up visits with the surgeon are essential for monitoring bowel health and overall recovery.

Best Hemicolectomy Hospitals

Mount Elizabeth Hospital

Mount Elizabeth Hospital

Singapore, Singapore

Mount Elizabeth Hospital is a multispecialty healthcare facility operated by Parkway Health. The hos...more

FACILITIES

phone in the room SIM

Free Wifi

Translator

Health Insurance Coordination

Joint Commission International, or JCI

Catholic kwandong university international St Mary hospital is one of its kind hospitals in Korea. I...more

FACILITIES

International Patient's Lounge

interpreter services Interpreter

Local Transportation Booking

family accomodation Accommodation Services

Joint Commission International, or JCI
Saudi German Hospital

Saudi German Hospital

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Saudi German Hospital is one of the largest private hospitals belonging to the SGH Group which is th...more

FACILITIES

Post-Surgery Care Services

Free Wifi

Rehabilitation

Health Insurance Coordination

Joint Commission International, or JCI

Consult Online with World’s Best Hemicolectomy

View All Doctors
Dr. Surender Kumar Dabas
Dr. Surender Kumar Dabas

Surgical Oncologist

Delhi, India

22 of experience

USD  48 for video consultation

Dr. Arun Kumar Giri
Dr. Arun Kumar Giri

Surgical Oncologist

Delhi, India

22 of experience

USD  28 for video consultation

Dr. Nikhil Yadav
Dr. Nikhil Yadav

General Laparoscopic Surgeon

Delhi, India

18 of experience

USD  28 for video consultation

Dr. Vinay Shaw
Dr. Vinay Shaw

General Laparoscopic Surgeon

Delhi, India

25 of experience

USD  30 for video consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Will I need to have a permanent stoma?

A. The stoma can be permanent or temporary, depending on the condition of the colon. If it has recovered, then the stoma will be removed.

Q. What are the risks associated with colectomy?

A. A colectomy may lead to infection, bleeding, and urinary dysfunctions. These may be avoided through proper care and maintenance of hygiene.

Q. Will I have a normal bowel after colectomy?

A. Yes, you will have a normal bowel movement after colectomy. You may have stoma if your colon is totally damaged.

Q. How long should I stay in the hospital?

A. You may need to stay for five to seven days in the hospital, depending on the type of the procedure used for colectomy.

Q. Which diet should I follow after the surgery?

A. You will be given nothing by mouth up to 24 hours of the surgery. After that, you will be on clear liquids and juices. After discharge, you should take soft diet for 2 to 3 weeks.

Q. Will I feel pain after the surgery?

A. You may not feel pain as anaesthesia and an epidural block will be given before the procedure. If you feel pain then an epidural will be given to relieve pain after the procedure.

Q. When can I start driving after the surgery?

A. You can start driving after two or three weeks of laparoscopic surgery, but you should wait for at least five weeks if you undergo open surgery.

Q.Can I take a shower after discharge?

A. Yes, you can take a shower, but you should not scrub on the incisions.

Explore Top Hospitals Worldwide for Hemicolectomy

Explore Top Hospitals for Hemicolectomy

Author

Dr. Vijita Jayan

BPT, MPT (Neuro)

18 Years of Experience

With over 18 years of distinguished clinical experience, Dr. Vijita Jayan is a highly accomplished Clinical Director and Rehabilitation Specialist, renowned for her expertise in neuro-rehabilitation, functional recovery, and mobility-dependent case management. Her extensive practical knowledge enables her to design and implement individualized, evidence-based rehabilitation protocols that consistently yield measurable patient outcomes. A prolific researcher and academic writer, she has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles and research papers, significantly advancing the field of rehabilitative medicine. The recipient of multiple prestigious accolades, Dr. Jayan is widely regarded as one of the foremost authorities in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, continually shaping neuro-rehabilitative care through research, innovation, and clinical excellence.. View More

Reviewer

Dr Prateek Varshney

Surgical Oncologist

15 Years of Experience

Dr. Prateek Varshney is a renowned Surgical Oncologist. He has experience of more than 15+ years in surgical Oncology. He is currently practicing as a consultant at Metro Mass Hospital and Cancer Institute. He was also previously associated as a consultant with Sir Ganga Ram Hospital and as a professor at Gujarat Cancer Research Institute. View More