GI Surgery
Surgical Management of Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis
Experienced IBD surgeons providing surgical solutions for inflammatory bowel disease complications. Colectomy, ileostomy, and restorative procedures with preserved quality of life.
15-20%
Of ulcerative colitis patients eventually requiring surgery
25-30%
Of Crohn's disease patients requiring surgery within 10 years
92%
Patient satisfaction after IPAA surgery
Key Capabilities
- •Total proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) for ulcerative colitis
- •Segmental colectomy for Crohn's disease with strictureplasty options
- •Ileostomy creation and management with stomal therapy support
- •Fistula and abscess management with long-term disease control
- •Minimally invasive laparoscopic IBD surgery
- •Coordinated care with gastroenterology and medical oncology teams
Why It Matters
Definitive Disease Control
Surgical intervention for failed medical therapy provides relief from chronic symptoms, improves nutrition status, and eliminates the need for continuous immunosuppressive medications in select cases.
Restored Quality of Life
Patients often experience dramatic symptom improvement: reduced diarrhea, abdominal pain relief, and weight gain. IPAA procedures maintain bowel continuity and avoid permanent ostomies when feasible.
Complication Prevention
Surgical management prevents serious complications like toxic megacolon, perforation, and fistulizing disease progression. Early intervention for strictures avoids emergency surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is surgery recommended for ulcerative colitis?
Surgery is considered for: failed medical therapy, severe acute colitis unresponsive to treatment, chronic symptoms affecting quality of life, dysplasia or cancer on surveillance, or toxic megacolon. Discussion with your gastroenterologist and surgeon determines the right timing.
What is an ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA)?
IPAA is a restorative procedure for ulcerative colitis where the colon and rectum are removed, and the small intestine (ileum) is fashioned into a reservoir and connected to the anus. This maintains bowel continuity and avoids permanent ostomies in most patients.
Can Crohn's disease be cured by surgery?
Surgery removes diseased bowel segments but doesn't cure Crohn's disease. Recurrence is common in remaining bowel (10-20% at 5 years). However, removing severely diseased segments provides symptom relief and prevents complications.
Do I need a permanent ostomy after IBD surgery?
For ulcerative colitis, IPAA eliminates the need for permanent ostomy in most cases. For Crohn's disease, temporary ileostomy during healing is common, but many patients achieve continuity. Your surgeon will discuss options based on disease extent.