According to the Mayo Clinic (mayoclinic.com) the surgery is, or may be, necessary in the following instances;
- Bowel obstruction
- Bowel perforation
- Colon cancer
- Inflammatory bowel disease i.e., Crohn's/Ulcerative Colitis that does not respond to medications.
A side note with Crohn's/Colitis says that the surgery MAY OFFER TEMPORARY RELIEF of symptoms. Now I can understand the need for emergency colectomy for obstruction and perforation and why colon cancer may require removal but to maybe obtain temporary relief??? To make matters worse there is no mention of the need to try dietary and lifestyle changes before the surgery. Once its gone its "Hasta la vista Baby".
Before you undergo any surgery, know the options, alternatives to, and consequences of, the procedure. In the case of Crohns/Colitis you must try alternatives like probiotic supplements and dietary changes. Its easier than cleaning colostomy supplies.