Intestinal Tract Surgery

Intestinal surgery, or bowel surgery, involves procedures to treat conditions affecting the small intestine and the colon (large intestine). These conditions can range from benign obstructions and inflammatory diseases to complex metabolic issues.

At Advanced Bariatric & Surgical Specialists, our approach is minimally invasive. By utilizing laparoscopic and robotic-assisted methods, Dr. Craig Chang can perform complex intestinal repairs and resections through small incisions, leading to a faster return to daily life for our patients.

Why this matters for your recovery:

• Less Post-Operative Pain: Small incisions mean less trauma to the abdominal wall.
• Faster Return of Bowel Function: Minimally invasive techniques typically result in less “ileus” (temporary paralysis of the gut) after surgery.
• Reduced Risk of Hernias: Smaller incisions are less likely to develop incisional hernias later in life.
• Shorter Hospital Stays: Most patients are able to return home days sooner than with traditional surgery.

Conditions We Treat

Dr. Chang provides surgical intervention for a wide array of intestinal disorders, including:

• Small Bowel Obstruction: Blockages caused by scar tissue (adhesions), hernias, or tumors that prevent food and fluid from passing.
• Diverticulitis: Inflammation or infection of small pouches (diverticula) that can develop in the lining of your digestive system.
• Intestinal Perforation: A hole in the wall of the stomach, small intestine, or large bowel.
• Benign Tumors and Polyps: Non-cancerous growths that may cause bleeding or blockages.
• Bariatric Revisions: Revision surgery for failed surgical procedures and complications related to previous weight loss procedures.

Surgical Procedures

Depending on your diagnosis, Dr. Chang may recommend one of the following procedures:

Small Bowel Resection: The removal of a diseased or obstructed portion of the small intestine. After the section is removed, the healthy ends are reconnected (anastomosis) to restore the flow of digestion.

Lysis of Adhesions: Many patients suffer from internal scar tissue (adhesions) from previous surgeries. This procedure involves carefully “freeing” the intestines from these restrictive bands to alleviate chronic pain or obstruction.

Colectomy (Partial or Total): The removal of part or all of the colon. This is often necessary for severe diverticulitis or tissue damage. Whenever possible, we perform this laparoscopically to avoid the long recovery times associated with traditional open surgery.

Recovery and Long-Term Health

Recovery from intestinal surgery depends on the complexity of the procedure. Our team provides a comprehensive post-operative plan, including:

• Dietary Guidance: Transitioning from clear liquids to soft foods to ensure the intestinal connection heals properly.
• Activity Monitoring: Encouraging early walking to prevent blood clots and stimulate bowel movement.
• Personalized Follow-up: Regular office visits in Victoria or Corpus Christi to monitor your healing progress.

 

Consult a Specialist

If you are suffering from chronic abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, or have been referred for a bowel resection, experience matters. Dr. Craig Chang combines years of specialized training with a compassionate, patient-centered approach.