Here is a quick glossary of those terms:
Colectomy: This surgery removes all or part of the colon.
Colostomy: In this procedure, the colon is connected to a hole in the abdomen (called a stoma) to divert stool away from a damaged or surgically repaired part of the colon or rectum. Some colostomies may be reversed once the repaired tissue heals. Other colostomies are permanent, and the tube is attached to a colostomy bag that collects waste.
Colonoscopy: This procedure inserts a flexible, lighted tube with a video camera through the rectum and into the colon. This allows doctors to inspect the lining of the colon for polyps, ulcers, tumors or other abnormalities. Polyps may be removed during the procedure. A colonoscopy may also be used to perform a biopsy.
Colonography: Also known as a virtual colonoscopy, a colonography is a CT scan that uses low-dose radiation to produce an image that may otherwise only be explored via a colonoscopy. During the examination, air may be pumped in to expand the colon for better viewing.
Colitis: This term is used to describe inflammation of the colon.