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Preoperative Care

Preparation for colon surgery begins a few days prior to the procedure unless the surgery is being done on an emergency basis, such as for an injury or intestinal bleeding. Most patients have undergone a colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or barium enema to diagnose the disease. These tests generally are not repeated. Prior to the operation, blood tests, a chest x-ray, an EKG and an abdominal CT scan may be ordered.

The colon contains bacteria and waste products that can cause...Read the full article