Colectomy is a surgical procedure to remove all or part of the colon. When only part of the colon is removed, it is called a partial colectomy. The procedure is also known as a bowel resection. The colon is part of the body's digestive system.
The use of potassium-sparing diuretics is contraindicated in patients with anuria, acute or progressive renal insufficiency, or diabetic nephropathy. Potassium-sparing diuretics can cause hyperkalemia, which may result in life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. Careful monitoring of serum potassium levels is necessary in all patients treated with potassium-sparing diuretics, especially during initiation of therapy, after dosage adjustment, and during illness that could alter renal function.
The body needs potassium for nerve and muscle cells to function, but too much potassium can also interfere with function (see Overview of Potassium). The most common cause of mild hyperkalemia is the use of drugs that decrease blood flow to the kidneys or prevent the kidneys from excreting normal amounts of potassium. Kidney failure can cause severe hyperkalemia on its own. Addison disease can also cause hyperkalemia.