[The indications for subtotal and total colectomy]

Subtotal and total colectomy was the choice therapeutic solution for multiple colonic cancer, diffuse rectocolonic polyposis, multiple colonic polyposis, ulcerohaemorrhagic rectocolitis, and for two rare diseases; megacolon with extensive atrophy of lymph nodes, and acute ischaemia of the colon. A total of 35 cases are reported. Ileorectal anastomosis was the method used for this type of intervention. The opportunity of rectal conservation is discussed, in cases of rectocolonic polyposis and ulcerative haemorrhagic rectocolitis. The difficulty of making an optimal choice in complicated forms of ulcerohaemorrhagic rectocolitis is exemplified with the aid of clinical observations.