Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nursing(WOCN) Ostomy Certification Practice Exam

The typical surgical procedure for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) is a total colectomy or proctocolectomy. This is a necessary intervention because FAP is characterized by the development of numerous polyps in the colon, which have a high risk of progressing to colorectal cancer.

A total colectomy entails the complete removal of the colon, while proctocolectomy involves the removal of both the colon and the rectum. These procedures aim to eliminate the risk of cancer by removing the affected areas before malignant transformation can occur.

Surveillance and less radical surgeries like a partial colectomy would not adequately address the substantial risk of malignancy associated with FAP. Therefore, the most effective and recognized approach is the total colectomy or proctocolectomy, making it the standard care for individuals diagnosed with this condition.