CROHN’S
DISEASE

Crohn’s disease is a form of inflammatory bowel disease which unlike ulcerative colitis, can affect any portion of the gastrointestinal tract. The most common area of disease is the last portion of the small intestine where it joins with the colon. The cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown and treatment is directed at reducing the inflammation in the bowel to reduce symptoms and prevent the development of complications. For patients who have symptoms refractory to medical therapy or who develop complications such as strictures, abcesses or fistulas, surgery may need to be considered.

CROHN’S DISEASE

Crohn’s disease is a form of inflammatory bowel disease which unlike ulcerative colitis, can affect any portion of the gastrointestinal tract. The most common area of disease is the last portion of the small intestine where it joins with the colon. The cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown and treatment is directed at reducing the inflammation in the bowel to reduce symptoms and prevent the development of complications. For patients who have symptoms refractory to medical therapy or who develop complications such as strictures, abcesses or fistulas, surgery may need to be considered.

The surgical management of Crohn’s disease is reserved for patients who have failed medical management or who develop complications. Because Crohn’s is a chronic disease the possibility exists for multiple surgeries during a patient’s lifetime. These operations can be complex, especially recurrent surgeries. Colon and rectal surgeons are able to provide bowel sparing options such as stricturoplasties and are trained to make these complex surgical decisions.