What does a transverse colectomy involve?

A transverse colectomy specifically involves the surgical removal of the transverse colon, which is the middle portion of the large intestine that runs horizontally across the abdomen. This procedure may be performed to treat various conditions affecting the transverse colon, such as tumors, obstructive lesions, or inflammatory diseases like diverticulitis.

Understanding the anatomy of the colon is crucial here. The colon consists of four main parts: the ascending colon (on the right side), the transverse colon (across the abdomen), the descending colon (on the left side), and the sigmoid colon leading into the rectum. Therefore, a transverse colectomy focuses on excising the section that lies between the ascending and descending colons, hence the correct answer identifies the removal of the middle part of the bowel.

This procedure may involve resection of a segment of the bowel and can be followed by anastomosis, which is the reconnection of the remaining sections of the bowel. The approach and rationale for this surgery are grounded in the specific health issues that might necessitate such an intervention, emphasizing the importance of precise knowledge in surgical procedures and anatomy in nursing practice.