Proctectomy is a surgery that involves the removal of the rectum, usually performed for patients with rectal cancer, inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis, or other rectal conditions. The procedure can be done through traditional open surgery or minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques.
In some cases, a colostomy or ileostomy may be necessary to allow for waste removal if the remaining colon cannot be reconnected. For cancer patients, additional procedures like lymph node dissection or chemotherapy may also be required.
Postoperative care includes managing pain, ensuring proper bowel function, and monitoring for complications such as infection, bleeding, or bowel obstruction. Nutritional support is essential during recovery, particularly if a stoma is created.
Proctectomy provides relief for patients with severe rectal disorders, offering a chance for long-term survival in cancer cases and symptom relief for conditions like ulcerative colitis.