Small bowel resection
Alternative names:
ileostomy; ileum surgery; small intestine surgery
Definition:
Surgical removal (resection) of diseased portion of the bowel (small intestine: ileum).
Description:
The patient is deep asleep and pain-free (general anesthesia). An incision is made into the abdomen. The diseased part of the small intestine (ileum) is removed. The two healthy ends are then sewn back together and the incision is closed.
If it is necessary to spare the intestine from its normal digestive work while it heals, a temporary opening (stoma) of the intestine onto the abdomen (ileostomy) may be done. A temporary ileostomy will be closed and repaired later. If a large portion of the bowel is removed, the ileostomy may be permanent.
The ileum absorbs much of the fluid from foods. When the large intestine is bypassed by an ileostomy, the patient should expect liquid stool (feces). The constant or frequent drainage of liquid stool can cause the skin around the ileostomy to become inflamed. Careful skin care and a well-fitting ileostomy bag can reduce this irritation.
Indications:
Resection of the small bowel may be recommended for:
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