ABSTRACT
Preop Preoperative colonoscopy to evaluate the entire colon and tattoo small lesions is
advised. Preoperative marking of potential stoma sites is prudent in the instance that creation of a stoma is needed. Mechanical bowel preparation is a matter of surgeon preference but is no longer an absolute mandate in colon surgery. A nasogastric tube need not be placed unless the patient presents with an obstruction but an orogastric tube should be placed once the patient is asleep. Sequential compression devices are applied to all patients and subcutaneous heparin administered. Prophylactic antibiotics should be given 30 minutes prior to the incision. A Foley catheter should be inserted.
