A colectomy is another name for a large bowel (colon or large intestine) resection, which is a surgical procedure that removes part or all of your large bowel. There are two methods of doing this surgery, a laparoscopy or an open colectomy.
A laparoscopic sigmoid colectomy is a procedure in which the doctor inserts a small camera into your belly, uses it to view the sigmoid colon, and uses small instruments to remove the diseased portion.
A series of three to five small incisions are made in your lower belly. The camera and instruments are passed through these incisions.
If your surgeon needs to put his hand into your belly, an additional cut two to three inches long may have to be made.
Your surgeon will fill your belly with gas. This expands it to make it easier to see and move the instruments around.
Once the surgeon finds the diseased portion, he will remove it and sew the healthy parts back together again. The incisions will be closed and you will have to stay in the hospital for three to seven days to watch for infection or any other complications.