Surgery
Bowel Resection
A bowel resection removes a diseased section of the bowel and usually rejoins the healthy ends, used for cancer, inflammation or blockage.
Quick answer
Bowel Resection: what it is, why it's done and what happens
A bowel (intestinal) resection removes part of the small or large bowel. The remaining ends are usually joined back together, though sometimes a stoma is formed temporarily or permanently.
- Why it is done: It is used for bowel cancer, severe inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis), diverticular disease, blockage, or damaged bowel from other causes.
- What happens: Under general anaesthetic, the surgeon removes the affected segment by keyhole or open surgery and rejoins the bowel or forms a stoma.
What it is
A bowel (intestinal) resection removes part of the small or large bowel. The remaining ends are usually joined back together, though sometimes a stoma is formed temporarily or permanently.
Why it is done
It is used for bowel cancer, severe inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis), diverticular disease, blockage, or damaged bowel from other causes.
What happens
Under general anaesthetic, the surgeon removes the affected segment by keyhole or open surgery and rejoins the bowel or forms a stoma. The operation can take a few hours, with a hospital stay of several days.
Recovery
The bowel takes time to start working again, so eating is introduced gradually. Recovery in hospital is typically several days, with full recovery over weeks; keyhole surgery is usually quicker.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Risks include bleeding, infection, a leak where the bowel is rejoined (anastomotic leak), and changes in bowel habit. A stoma may be needed temporarily or permanently in some cases.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Bowel Resection: frequently asked questions
Will I need a stoma after bowel surgery?
Not always. Often the healthy ends of bowel are rejoined, but sometimes a stoma is formed — either temporarily to allow healing or, less commonly, permanently, depending on the situation.
How is my bowel affected afterwards?
Bowel habits can change, especially if a large part is removed, but many people adjust well over time. Your team will advise on diet and what to expect for your operation.
Related
Other surgery
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- Relevant Royal College / professional body
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