Crohn's Disease
If you have Crohn’s disease, you may not know that there are about 500,000 people who also have the disease in the U.S. 68, 69 It’s a chronic inflammation most often affecting the last part of the large intestine (colon), but can occur anywhere in the digestive tract and may recur.
Sometimes referred to colitis, its symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, weight loss, and bloating. These are similar to those of other intestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome and ulcerative colitis, making it difficult to diagnose. That why it’s important to talk to your doctor and get the right diagnosis along with the best plan for treatment.
Treatment for Crohn’s Disease
Crohn's disease treatment mainly involves reducing symptoms and preventing them from recurring. Complications such as blockage of the intestine and the formation of scars, sores, and ulcerations within the intestinal tract can be treated with medication. In some cases, usually emergencies, your surgeon may decide that surgery may be the most appropriate course of action.
Colon Surgery Options
If your doctor is recommending colon surgery for colitis, try to learn as much as you can about the procedure. With years of research and advances in technology, there are now different options for how the procedures are performed. Along with the traditional “open” procedure (which requires a large incision), there is a minimally invasive approach (with small incisions) that is equally effective. Minimally invasive colon surgery typically results in a shorter hospital stay26, 28 and faster recovery with less pain28 and smaller scars.
Talking to your Doctor about Crohn’s Disease
It’s important for you to learn as much about your condition and treatment options as possible, and your doctor is your best resource. These questions can help you start the conversation:
Crohn's Disease Resources
Patients who have colon surgery using a minimally invasive approach may return to work 5-26 days sooner than patients who have open colon surgery.20
Whether you choose to have conventional surgery or to have a Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS), it is important that you have a surgeon who is experienced and qualified to perform the procedure.
To locate a surgeon in your area experienced with MIS, click here.
