A colectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of all or part of the colon, which is the large intestine. This operation is often performed to treat conditions such as colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or severe diverticulitis. Depending on the extent of the disease, the surgery can be partial or total. After a colectomy, patients may experience changes in bowel habits and require dietary adjustments. The procedure can be done through traditional open surgery or minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopic surgery. Recovery times vary, but many patients can return to normal activities within a few weeks.