About Proctocolectomy
Key Highlights
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Curative treatment for Ulcerative Colitis and Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP).Eliminates the risk of colorectal cancer in the removed bowel segments.Can be performed with ileal pouch creation (J-pouch) to preserve natural bowel route.Performed by specialized Surgical Gastroenterologists with expertise in complex GI anatomy.Often performed using minimally invasive (laparoscopic/robotic) techniques for reduced scarring and faster initial recovery.
Who is this surgery for?
- Ulcerative Colitis refractory to medical therapy (steroids, immunomodulators, biologics).
- Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) to prevent inevitable cancer development.
- Colorectal cancer involving a large portion of the colon and rectum.
- Severe, life-threatening complications of IBD like toxic megacolon, perforation, or massive hemorrhage.
- Certain cases of Crohn's disease, though less common due to risk of recurrence in the small bowel.
How to prepare
- Comprehensive evaluation including colonoscopy, imaging (CT/MRI), and blood tests.
- Detailed consultation with the surgeon, gastroenterologist, and possibly an ostomy nurse.
- Bowel preparation (clear liquid diet and laxatives) to empty the colon.
- Pre-operative nutritional optimization, possibly with supplements.
- Discontinuation of certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) as advised by the surgical team.
- Marking of potential stoma site by an enterostomal therapist if an ileostomy is planned.
Risks & possible complications
- General surgical risks: bleeding, infection, blood clots (DVT/PE), and anesthesia complications.
- Injury to nearby structures like the small intestine, ureters, or nerves.
- Anastomotic leak (leakage from the pouch or connection site).
- Pouchitis (inflammation of the ileal pouch).
- Bowel obstruction due to scar tissue (adhesions).
- Changes in sexual function or fertility (particularly in women).
- For ileostomy: skin irritation, dehydration, or stoma-related complications.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Hospital stay typically involves 5-7 days for pain management, IV fluids, and monitoring for complications.
- Gradual advancement from clear liquids to a soft, low-fiber diet.
- Incision and/or stoma care education provided by nursing staff.
- Pain is managed with medications, transitioning to oral pain relievers.
- Slow increase in physical activity; heavy lifting is restricted for 6-8 weeks.
- Follow-up appointments to monitor healing, manage diet, and adjust medications.
- For J-pouch patients, bowel frequency is high initially and gradually improves over months.
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Typical hospital stay: 5-7 days
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Expected recovery time: 6-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months for full adaptation and strength
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering proctocolectomy in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in Turkey with surgical gastroenterology departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform proctocolectomy. MediFyr helps you compare surgical gastroenterologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for proctocolectomy compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | USD 3,807 – USD 8,701 | 5-7 days | ~ 6-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months for full adaptation and strength | Know More |
| Turkey | USD 28,184 – USD 64,420 | 5-7 days | ~ 6-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months for full adaptation and strength | Know More |
Dr. surendran r provided exceptional care...
Dr. surendran r provided exceptional care for my surgical gastroenterology condition. The treatment was personalized and effective.