What is a coloanal anastomosis?

A coloanal anastomosis is a surgical procedure that involves removing a portion of the rectum and then connecting the remaining part of the colon directly to the anus. This is typically done when a portion of the rectum is diseased or needs to be removed due to conditions such as cancer or inflammatory bowel disease. The goal of this procedure is to maintain bowel continuity and allow for normal evacuation through the anus.

This connection effectively allows stool to pass from the colon directly through the anus, which helps preserve normal bowel function as much as possible, even after the rectal tissue has been largely removed. The success of a coloanal anastomosis depends on various factors, including the health of the remaining colon and anus, and the technique used during surgery.

The other options refer to different surgical procedures that do not align with the specific definition of a coloanal anastomosis.