What Is a Proctocolectomy?
Sometimes referred to as a total colectomy, a proctocolectomy is a form of surgery used to treat a number of different bowel diseases, including ulcerative colitis. This type of surgical procedure is usually reserved for situations where other forms of treatment, such as medication and diet, have not resulted in the ability to manage the health issue. Once the surgery is complete, the patient will wear a proctocolectomy pouch for the remainder of his or her life.
