Patient Question
Hello Doctor
Can removing a large part of the colon cause vitamin deficiency? How do we know if there's a deficiency?
Answered by Dr. Hossam Aldin Mostafa
Hello
Thank you for reaching out to Dr. Galen. Please find the below response to your query.
Possibility of Deficiency:
1. Surgical removal of the cecum, particularly due to a mass, can lead to vitamin B12 deficiency.
Diagnostic Method:
1. Deficiency is often detected through analysis of serum vitamin B12 levels.
2. Low levels indicate insufficient absorption due to reduced intestinal surface area.
Recommendations for Management:
1. Supplemental vitamin B12 may be prescribed to address deficiency post-surgery.
2. Regular monitoring of serum B12 levels ensures adequacy of supplementation.
Thanks
