[Results and late sequelae of colectomy].

Results after 55 colectomies are reported in the period from 1962-1986. The surgical intervention was indicated by ulcerative colitis in 19, Crohn's disease in 18 and familial polyposis of the colon in 18 cases. 37 total colectomies, 12 subtotal colectomies with ileorectal anastomosis and 6 colectomies with a remaining terminal closed stump of the rectum were performed. During the period of observation postoperative lethality decreased from 37% to 6%. Death was most frequently caused by thromboemboli and peritonitis. In 44% of the patients ill with familial polyposis malignant degeneration could be observed. 3 died by generalized metastases. Metabolism of protein, lipid and electrolyte showed no essential disturbances after colectomy. Intestinal assimilation was nearly standard. More difficult is social reintegration.