A hemicolectomy is the surgical removal of a portion of the colon used primarily in the treatment of colon cancer. If the resulting re-sectioning of the colon is substantial, a problem known as "short bowel syndrome" may result, according to a 2002 article published in the "Canadian Medical Association Journal." This condition can lead to faster emptying of the bowels, often accompanied by loose, watery stools and general discomfort. Dietary adjustments may help decrease the incidence of side effects following a hemicolectomy. Check with your doctor before making significant changes to your eating habits.
Food and Beverages Before Surgery
Preparation for a hemicolectomy begins the day before you have your surgery. Your doctor will most likely tell you to have light meals for breakfast and lunch the day before surgery to help clear the bowels of solid food particles. After noon the day before surgery, you will only consume clear liquids, such as water and electrolyte replacement beverages, and you should not eat or drink anything after midnight, to allow your body time to digest. If you take medications, ask your doctor about the protocol for taking them without food or without liquids before your surgery.
Beverages After Surgery
Following a hemicolectomy, your surgeon will determine whether you can begin consuming foods again, beginning with beverages. Avoid carbonated beverages, because they can cause discomfort, particularly in the areas in and around your incision. If you experience loose bowels after surgery, maintain adequate hydration with some nutrition by drinking sweetened beverages, such as electrolyte replacement beverages and juices. Avoid juices that tend to encourage the development of excess gas, such as apple and prune juices. Check with your surgeon about specific beverages after your hemicolectomy.
Solid Foods Following Surgery
After a hemicolectomy, you will slowly begin to reintroduce solid foods. If you experience loose stools after your surgery, choose foods that can be easily digested, such as white flour products, white rice and peanut butter. Some symptoms such as diarrhea, excess gas and dehydration tend to occur commonly following hemicolectomy but should decrease as your body heals. Avoid foods that contain large amounts of fiber or are known to cause excess gas production, like raisins, until your system recovers.
Other Considerations
Dehydration is a primary concern following a hemicolectomy. This can occur because of a decrease in normal amounts of bacteria and enzymes that help digest food properly, leading to diarrhea. Additionally, your recovering colon may also have some impairment in absorption of nutrients from the foods and beverages you do consume, which can also lead to dehydration. Symptoms of dehydration include decreased urination, fatigue, thirst and dry skin. Dehydration, in the case of impaired nutrient and fluid absorption can occur even if you are drinking and eating an adequate amount of both, so it may help to maintain a journal of the foods and beverages you consume. This can help you and your surgeon make adjustments in your diet or medications to improve your absorption and decrease the risk of dehydration.
References
- Cedars-Sinai Hospital: Right Hemicolectomy
- "Canadian Medical Association Journal"; Short Bowel Syndrome: A Nutritional and Medical Approach: Khursheed N. Jeejeebhoy; May 2002
- Cheltenham Colorectal; A Patient's Guide to Left Hemicolectomy; Neil R. Borley
- University of Michigan Health System; Colectomy Diet; December 2008
- Kaiser-Permanente: Patient Handbook for Colectomy
