Our Summary

This research paper investigates why some patients develop a fever after undergoing a colectomy (surgery to remove part of the colon). The study was conducted by looking at data from patients who had this type of surgery between 2015 and 2020 and developed a fever afterwards. The researchers wanted to see if they could identify any factors that could predict who would develop a fever that required a change in treatment.

Out of 1036 patients who had the surgery, 143 (or about 14%) developed a fever. Of those, only 27 patients (or about 19%) had a fever that was linked to an identifiable cause and required a change in treatment. Factors that were associated with a fever that required a change in treatment included being a smoker, the time it took for the fever to develop after surgery, having a high fever, changes in other vital signs, and having symptoms that pointed to a specific cause for the fever.

The researchers concluded that few patients who develop a fever after a colectomy need a change in treatment. For those without multiple risk factors, additional testing is unlikely to be beneficial.

FAQs

  1. What percentage of patients developed a fever after undergoing a colectomy according to this research?
  2. What factors were found to be associated with a fever that required a change in treatment post-colectomy?
  3. According to the study, is additional testing beneficial for all patients who develop a fever after a colectomy?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about colectomy is to closely monitor for signs of infection, such as fever, redness, swelling, or increased pain at the surgical site. It’s important to follow all post-operative care instructions and attend follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and prevent complications. If any concerning symptoms develop, it’s crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately for further evaluation and treatment.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for colectomy include those with inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis), colorectal cancer, severe diverticulitis, or hereditary polyposis syndromes. Other conditions that may warrant a colectomy include severe gastrointestinal bleeding, bowel obstruction, or perforation of the colon.

It is important to note that the decision to recommend a colectomy is individualized and based on the specific condition of the patient, their overall health, and the severity of their symptoms. Patients should discuss the potential risks and benefits of colectomy with their healthcare provider to determine if it is the right treatment option for them.

Timeline

Before colectomy:

  • Patient consults with a healthcare provider to discuss the need for a colectomy and the risks and benefits of the surgery.
  • Patient undergoes preoperative testing, such as blood tests, imaging studies, and possibly a colonoscopy.
  • Patient may need to follow a special diet or take medications to prepare for the surgery.
  • Patient undergoes the colectomy surgery, which involves removing part of the colon.
  • Patient is monitored closely in the hospital for complications and to ensure proper healing.

After colectomy:

  • Patient may experience pain, fatigue, and discomfort following the surgery.
  • Patient may need to stay in the hospital for several days to recover.
  • Patient will be monitored for signs of infection, bleeding, or other complications.
  • Patient will slowly resume eating and drinking, starting with clear liquids and progressing to solid foods.
  • Patient may need to take pain medications, antibiotics, and other medications to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
  • Patient will follow up with their healthcare provider for postoperative care and monitoring of their recovery and any potential complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about colectomy include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with colectomy surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery process expected to take?
  3. Will I need to make any lifestyle or dietary changes after the surgery?
  4. What kind of follow-up care will I need after the surgery?
  5. How will the surgery affect my bowel function and digestion?
  6. Are there any specific warning signs or symptoms I should watch out for after the surgery?
  7. What factors could increase my risk of developing a fever after the surgery?
  8. How will a fever be managed if it occurs after the surgery?
  9. What tests or evaluations will be done to determine the cause of a fever after the surgery?
  10. Are there any specific factors in my medical history or current health status that could affect my risk of developing a fever after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Booth A, Ford W, Olajire-Aro T, George V, Curran T. Journal: J Surg Res. 2022 Sep;277:171-180. doi: 10.1016/j.jss.2022.04.024. Epub 2022 Apr 29. PMID: 35500512