What Are The Complications Associated With Colon Resection Surgery In An Elderly Person?

Posted on Wed, 10 Jun 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 10 Jun 2015 Answered on

Wed, 1 Jul 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I am my husbands caregiver. He will have a colon resection on Monday 6/15 and will be in the hospital for 3 to 5 days. What should I expect in the way of caregiving needs for him after he is home. They will remove approximately 12 inches of colon. One growth has the potential of being cancerous the other does not. Both were biopsied at the time of the colonoscopy and showed no cancer but the surgeon will still approach this as cancer surgery. My husband is 80 years old (I've Had Him for 45 of those years) he is a cantankerous, only child and does not like his world to be interrupted. What is he going to be like from a health standpoint. I can get help, but I would prefer not to. Money is not an issue. Any information will be greatly appreciated.

Answered by Dr. Indranil Ghosh (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
he will do well

Detailed Answer:
Hi

I understand your concern. Part of colon removal is a very safe surgery and risk of complications is quite low.

He may have some pain in the wound and some bowel disturbance but these will get better.

I think he will be back to normal in 2-3 weeks.

Hope this helps.
Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar