Most colon resections, both open and laparoscopic, heal without problems; however, all surgical procedures carry risk. Complications associated with colon resection are infection, injury to surrounding organs during the procedure, and leakage from the anastomosis.

Symptoms that can indicate a postsurgical complication include the following:

Drainage, bleeding, or swelling at the incision site
Pain unrelieved by medication and comfort measures
Rectal bleeding
Sudden fever

The appearance of any one of these symptoms should be reported immediately to the surgeon.

« Postoperative Care

Physician-developed and -monitored.
Original Date of Publication: 01 Nov 2001
Reviewed by: Stanley J. Swierzewski, III, M.D.
Last Reviewed: 01 Nov 2001