Can you live without your colon?

As a medical professional, I can confirm that it is indeed possible for an individual to live without their colon, which is a part of the large intestine that plays a crucial role in the digestion and absorption process. This situation typically arises when the colon is removed due to conditions such as colon cancer, severe inflammatory bowel disease, or other serious medical issues. The procedure is known as a colectomy. After a colectomy, the remaining part of the digestive system needs to adapt to the absence of the colon. The rectum, which is the final section of the large intestine leading to the anus, may also be removed during the surgery. If this is the case, the surgeon will create an ostomy. An ostomy is a surgically created opening on the surface of the abdomen, and it's where the remaining part of the intestine is brought out to release waste. A small pouch, often called a stoma bag, is placed over the ostomy to collect waste. People with an ostomy can still lead full and active lives, but they will need to manage the care of their ostomy and the stoma bag regularly. This includes emptying the bag, cleaning the area, and changing the bag as needed. While living without a colon is certainly a significant adjustment, with proper medical care and support, individuals can maintain a good quality of life.

Stomach: The whole stomach is sometimes removed as a treatment for stomach cancer, a procedure called a total gastrectomy. In this procedure, the small intestine is connected to the esophagus. ... People can live without a colon, but may need to wear a bag outside their body to collect stool.