Hartmann operation

The Hartmann operation, also known as discontinuity resection according to Hartmann, describes a colon operation with surgical removal of the sigmoid and rectum, in which the continuity of the bowel can no longer be established after a resection. In Hartmann surgery, the rectum is blindly closed and the oral upper end is drained from the abdominal wall as an artificial intestinal outlet.

The Hartmann operation is the most commonly used surgical method for artificial bowel outlet in the area of the colon. It can be performed laparoscopically or open surgery.