Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
hartmann procedure
Pronunciation: HART-man
Surgical resection of diseased sigmoid colon with creation of end colostomy and closure of rectal stump.
Full Definition
Named after French surgeon Henri Albert Hartmann, this procedure involves resection of the sigmoid colon with creation of an end colostomy and closure of the distal rectal stump (Hartmann's pouch). Commonly performed as an emergency procedure for complicated diverticulitis, sigmoid perforation, or obstructing left-sided colorectal cancer. The procedure may be reversed at a later date with restoration of bowel continuity, though reversal carries significant morbidity and is not always feasible.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize as proper noun. May include apostrophe (Hartmann's) but not required in modern usage.
In Context
- "Emergency Hartmann procedure was performed for perforated diverticulitis with peritonitis." — Operative report
- "The patient was counseled regarding potential Hartmann reversal after recovery from sepsis." — Surgical consultation note
Also known as
Hartmann's procedure
Don't confuse with
low anterior resection
abdominoperineal resection