Crohn’s Disease
Like ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s Disease is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It causes patchy inflammation of the lining of the digestive tract at any location from the mouth to the anus. The end result can be severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, and even malnutrition. Typically, Crohn’s disease is managed with medications whenever possible. Surgery is necessary when the disease is not controlled by the medications, or complications of the inflammation arise.
Depending upon the severity of the disease or the type of complication, the surgical approach for Crohn’s disease can vary. These procedures can range from:
•Partial Colectomy – removal of the colon
•Proctocolectomy – removal of colon and rectum
•Bowel Resection – removal of portion of intestine
•Stricturoplasty – widening the small intestine
The surgeons of Loveland Surgical Associates are well versed in the management of Crohn’s Disease and treatment options, and will gladly discuss these with you should you need surgical intervention.
|