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Our specialist surgeons are trained in the diagnosis and surgical management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The diagnosis is usually confirmed on colonoscopy. Our specialist surgeons also work in tandem with gastroenterologists to manage the medical aspects of this complex condition.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of chronic, relapsing inflammatory conditions of the gastrointestinal tract characterized by immune-mediated inflammation. It typically presents with symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, weight loss, and fatigue, and often follows a course of flare-ups and remission.
The two main types of IBD are
ulcerative colitis and
Crohn’s disease.
Ulcerative colitis is limited to the large bowel (colon and rectum) and causes continuous inflammation of the mucosal lining, starting at the rectum and extending proximally. In contrast,
Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus, and is characterized by patchy (skip) lesions and transmural inflammation, which can lead to complications such as strictures and fistulas.
In most cases, IBD is managed medically, however on occasions failed medical management or complications can make surgery necessary.
