Emergency bowel resection: what to know

An emergency operation may be required for a bowel blockage, perforation, loss of blood supply, severe infection, uncontrolled bleeding, or a damaged tumour. The surgeon removes the unsafe segment and examines the remaining bowel. If the ends can heal together safely, they may be joined. If joining is unsafe or more time is needed for healing, a temporary or long-term stoma may bring bowel contents through the abdominal wall. The operation can be open or minimally invasive, depending on the situation.

After surgery, the team monitors pain, wound healing, bowel function, hydration, and signs of infection. Movement, breathing exercises, and gradual eating may help recovery. A stoma nurse can teach pouch care if a stoma was formed. The removed tissue may be examined to identify the cause and guide further care. If cancer is found, [Bowel Cancer](/conditions/colorectal-cancer/) follow-up may include additional treatment. A planned [Bowel Resection](/treatments/surgical-oncology/colectomy/) differs from emergency surgery because there is usually more time for preparation.

After discharge, seek urgent medical help for severe or worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, a swollen abdomen, inability to pass stool or gas, fever, fainting, heavy wound bleeding, or a stoma that becomes very dark or stops producing output with pain. New breathlessness or chest pain also needs emergency assessment.

Ask which bowel segment was removed, why the emergency operation was necessary, whether the bowel was reconnected, and how to care for the wound or stoma. Ask when pathology will be discussed, which foods and activities are suitable during recovery, and which warning signs should prompt a call.