The colon is the large intestine; it is the lower part of the digestive tract. The intestine is a long, tubular organ consisting of the small intestine, the colon (large intestine) and the rectum, which is the last part of the colon. After food is swallowed, it begins to be digested in the stomach and then empties into the small intestine, where the nutritional part of the food is absorbed. The remaining waste moves through the colon to the rectum and is expelled from the body. The colon and rectum absorb water and hold the waste until you are ready to expel it. SYMPTOMS Although laparoscopic colon resection has many benefits, it may not be appropriate for some patients. Colon stricture due to tuberculosis, Crohn's disease and early-stage cancer of colon are usually treated with laparoscopic surgery. Our healthcare team with discuss with you in detail and you are encouraged for active discussion regarding appropriate procedure for you. DIAGNOSIS Most diseases of the colon are diagnosed with one of two tests: a colonoscopy or barium enema. A colonoscopy is a soft, bendable tube about the thickness of the index finger which is inserted into the anus and then advanced through the entire large intestine. A barium enema is a special X-ray where a white milk-shake fluid is flushed into the rectum and by using mild pressure is pushed throughout the entire large intestine. These tests allow the surgeon to look inside of the colon. In case of malignancy, CT scan of the abdomen is required to know about the local spread of disease. LAPAROSCOPIC COLON SURGERY Laparoscopic colon surgery is performed through small incisions for various indications. A cannula (hollow tube) is placed into the abdomen and your abdomen will be inflated with carbon dioxide gas to create a space to operate. A laparoscope (a tiny telescope connected to a video camera) is put through one of the cannulas which projects a video picture of the internal organs and spleen on a television monitor. Several cannulas are placed in different locations on your abdomen to allow your surgeon to place instruments inside your belly to work and remove your colon. After the colon is cut from all that it is connected to, it is placed inside a special bag. The bag with the colon inside is pulled up into one of the small, but largest incisions on your abdomen and colon within the special bag are removed from the body. Common advantages of laparoscopic colon surgery are: Less postoperative pain, shorten hospital stay, quicker return to bowel function, quicker return to normal activity & better cosmetic results.
