First let me say how sorry am that you and your wife are dealing with this. Second, where in Utah are you? I have a nurse friend from Utah, and just might know someone depending on where you are and where she is from.
Now. Trauma surgeons are usually the best surgeons because they work under difficult circumstances more often then not. But they are no experts in anything, just good at handling stress. I would first try for colon Rectal. Scream and yell if you have to. Having am open surgery is not the worst thing in the world. My son, who is 28, has had three of them. The good thing about an open surgery is that the doctors can see what they are doing rather than feel around. A lot of old time doctors still prefer open to lap surgery. They get a better view. I had open heart surgery that way. I’m still alive because if the open concept. I would be more concerned about the after care and how experienced the surgeon is that how the surgery is done. You have a good working knowledge of what is happening and how it needs to be done. Trust your gut. Listen to your heart. Your intuition is always correct and you will know what is correct. If you don’t like the people caring for your wife, have her moved if possible. By the way, what hospital is she In? I’m sure someone here would be somewhat familiar.
Good luck to you and your wife. Tons of good thoughts and prayers coming your way.
Dianne