proctocolectomy
Pronunciation: prok-toe-koe-LEK-toe-mee
Surgical removal of both the rectum and colon, typically performed for inflammatory bowel disease or familial adenomatous polyposis.
Full Definition
A proctocolectomy is a major surgical procedure involving the complete removal of the rectum and colon. This operation is most commonly performed for severe inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease) that has not responded to medical therapy, or for familial adenomatous polyposis where there is high cancer risk. The procedure may be performed with the creation of an ileostomy or with the formation of an ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) to maintain bowel continuity. Recovery is extensive and requires careful postoperative management.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify whether performed with ileostomy or ileal pouch formation.
In Context
- "The patient underwent total proctocolectomy with ileostomy for refractory ulcerative colitis." — operative report
- "Proctocolectomy remains the gold standard treatment for familial adenomatous polyposis." — clinical guidelines