Definition: The surgical removal of part or all of the colon and the rectum. In a subtotal colectomy, only parts of the colon are removed, and the rectum is left intact. In a right hemicolectomy, the "right" side of the colon, the ileum and the middle of the transverse colon, is removed. In a left hemicolectomy, the "left" side of the colon, the middle of the transverse colon to the rectum, is removed.
A colectomy may be used to treat several conditions, including Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and colorectal cancer.
Pronunciation: ko-LEK-toe-mee
Also Known As: complete colectomy, total colectomy
