Crohn's Disease & Ulcerative Colitis
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are chronic inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) that can cause pain, diarrhea, bleeding, and complications in the digestive tract. While many patients manage symptoms with medication and lifestyle changes, surgery may be necessary for severe, refractory, or complicated cases.
Our colorectal specialists provide comprehensive Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis care, including advanced surgical interventions when needed, with a focus on restoring intestinal health and improving quality of life.
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If you’re struggling with chronic bowel inflammation or complications,
Call our office today or request an appointment online for personalized evaluation and treatment.
What Does Crohn's Disease & Ulcerative Colitis Treatment Address?
Treatment addresses:
- Chronic inflammation in the digestive tract
- Severe flare-ups or complications
- Obstruction, abscesses, or fistulas
- Refractory disease not responding to medication
- Prevention of long-term complications
What Is Crohn's Disease?
Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, causing patchy areas of inflammation that may extend through the bowel wall.
What Is Ulcerative Colitis?
Ulcerative colitis affects the colon and rectum with continuous inflammation of the inner lining, often causing bleeding and diarrhea.
Common Symptoms
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Chronic diarrhea
- Rectal bleeding
- Unintended weight loss
- Fatigue
- Urgent or frequent bowel movements
When to See a Doctor
Seek care if you experience:
- Severe or worsening abdominal pain
- Persistent diarrhea or blood in stool
- High fever
- Signs of bowel obstruction or infection
Early evaluation can prevent complications and guide optimal treatment.
How to Prepare for IBD Surgery
Preparation may include:
- Diagnostic imaging (CT, MRI, or colonoscopy)
- Blood tests and lab work
- Nutritional optimization
- Medication review, especially immunosuppressants
- Bowel preparation if required
- Arranging post-surgical care and support
Our team provides step-by-step guidance to make preparation clear and manageable.
Before the Procedure
- Arrive 1–2 hours before surgery for check-in
- Bring ID, insurance card, and current medication list
- Meet your surgical and anesthesia team
- Review the procedure, recovery plan, and ask questions
Patient comfort and understanding are priorities before surgery.
During the Procedure
Surgical options vary based on disease severity and location:
For Crohn’s Disease
- Resection of diseased bowel segments
- Management of fistulas or abscesses
- Minimally invasive laparoscopic or robotic approaches
For Ulcerative Colitis
- Colectomy or proctocolectomy (removal of colon/rectum)
- Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) reconstruction in selected patients
- Laparoscopic or robotic-assisted techniques for faster recovery
Procedures are performed under general anesthesia and may last 2–4 hours depending on complexity.
After the Procedure
Recovery varies by procedure and individual health.
You may experience:
- Abdominal discomfort and bloating
- Temporary changes in bowel habits
- Fatigue
- Mild incision tenderness
Hospital stays typically range from 3–7 days depending on procedure complexity.
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:
- Fever over 101°F
- Severe abdominal pain
- Heavy bleeding
- Signs of infection
- Persistent vomiting or inability to pass stool
Follow-up care is essential to monitor healing and prevent complications.
Risks & Benefits
Benefits
- Relief from severe symptoms
- Removal of diseased bowel segments
- Prevention of life-threatening complications
- Improved quality of life
- Minimally invasive surgical options
Risks
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Anastomotic leak at bowel connection
- Temporary or permanent ostomy (in some cases)
- Recurrence of Crohn’s disease in remaining bowel segments
Your surgeon will review your individualized risks and expected outcomes.
Patient Resources & Education
We provide:
- Guidance on diet, nutrition, and lifestyle for IBD
- Pre- and post-operative care instructions
- Support for managing medications and immunosuppressants
- Insurance and billing assistance
- Online patient forms
Our team supports you at every stage of treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is surgery always needed for Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis?
No. Surgery is typically reserved for severe, complicated, or medication-resistant cases.
How long is recovery after IBD surgery?
Recovery varies by procedure, generally ranging from several weeks to months.
Can Crohn’s disease recur after surgery?
Yes. Crohn’s disease may recur in remaining bowel segments, requiring ongoing management.
Will I need an ostomy?
Some procedures, especially for ulcerative colitis, may involve temporary or permanent ostomy depending on disease extent.
How often will I need follow-up care?
Regular follow-up with your colorectal surgeon and gastroenterologist is essential to monitor disease and prevent complications.
Take Control of Your IBD Today
Don’t let Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis control your life.