What is the Colon?
The colon is the large intestine; it is the lower part of your digestive tract. The intestine is a long, tubular organ consisting of the small intestine, the colon (large intestine) and the rectum, which is the last part of the colon. After food is swallowed, it begins to be digested in the stomach and then empties into the small intestine, where the nutritional part of the food is absorbed. The remaining waste moves through the colon to the rectum and is expelled from the body. The colon and rectum absorb water and hold the waste until you are ready to expel it.

What is colon disease?
Each year, more than 600,000 surgical procedures are performed in the United States to treat a number of colon diseases. Although surgery is not always a cure, it is often the best way to stop the spread of disease and alleviate pain and discomfort. Diseases or Conditions treated by bowel resection include:

• Tumors of the Ascending, Transverse or Descending Colon
• Diverticultis
• Crohn's Disease

Symptoms:
Colon disease may present in many different ways. Symptoms may include:

• A change in bowel habit frequency - diarrhea or constipation
• Blood in stool
• Cramping/ abdominal pain that lingers

Diagnosis
Most diseases of the colon are diagnosed with one of two tests: a colonoscopy or Barium Enema. These tests allow the surgeon to look inside of the colon. Sometimes a CT scan of the abdomen will be necessary. Prior to the operation, other blood tests, electrocardiogram (EKG) or a chest x-ray might be required.

What if I need surgery?
Laparoscopic colon surgery is available for certain patients. Rectal cancers are not treated by the CVLS. The advantages of laparoscopic approach are:

• less postoperative pain.
• shorter hospital stay.
• may result in a faster return to solid-food diet and may result in a quicker return of bowel function.
• quicker return to normal activity.
• better cosmetic results.