A cecectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the cecum, the pouch-like structure at the beginning of the large intestine, where the small intestine joins the colon. This surgery is performed to treat a variety of conditions affecting the cecum, including cancer, severe inflammation due to appendicitis, diverticulitis, or inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn's disease), and cecal volvulus (a twisting of the cecum that can cause a bowel obstruction). In some cases, cecectomy is performed prophylactically if there is a high risk of cancer or recurring infections. The procedure can be performed through open surgery, with a larger incision, or laparoscopically, using smaller incisions and specialized instruments, depending on the patient's condition and the surgeon's approach. Cecectomy aims to remove the diseased part of the intestine and restore the continuity of the bowel, either by connecting the remaining parts of the intestine or creating a stoma if necessary.
While generally effective, a cecectomy carries potential complications. These include infection, bleeding, leakage from the reconnected intestine, bowel obstruction, and injury to nearby organs. Additionally, patients may experience changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, following the procedure. In rare cases, more severe complications like sepsis or deep vein thrombosis may occur. Recovery varies depending on the method of surgery and the individual's overall health, with laparoscopic procedures typically offering faster recovery and less postoperative pain than open surgery.
