How Long Does Ulcerative Colitis Surgery Take?
The duration of Ulcerative colitis surgery varies depending on the type of procedure and the complexity of the case. A total proctocolectomy, which involves the removal of the colon and rectum, typically takes between two and five hours. If the surgery involves the creation of a J-pouch, an internal reservoir made from the small intestine to allow for more normal bowel movements, the procedure may take longer, particularly if it is done in stages. In some cases, the surgery is performed laparoscopically, which can reduce operating time and recovery duration.
If an ileostomy is created, where the small intestine is brought through the abdominal wall to create a stoma, this process can add time to the surgery. The complexity of the procedure, the patient's overall health, and any additional complications that may arise during surgery can also affect the time it takes to complete. Your surgeon will provide more specific details about the expected time frame based on your individual case.
