From the experience at the University of Chicago involving a large number of cases of small bowel Crohn's disease, the average length of small bowel resection was measured at only 17 inches, a length that is unlikely to result in noticeable physiological detriment to the absorption of nutrients and overall bowel function. For intestinal segments affected by stricturing disease strictureplasty can be performed in selected cases as an alternative to a lengthy resection and thereby providing a means for preserving small bowel length. While not appropriate for all cases of small bowel Crohn's disease, strictureplasty is being employed in an increasing number of cases. Michelassi Strictureplasty Employed for Severe Crohn's Disease While there are no randomized controlled studies that directly compare the recurrence rates after resection versus strictureplasty, several reports of the recurrence rates after strictureplasty seem to compare well with known recurrence rates after a simple resection. Conclusion Crohn's disease can give rise to varied symptoms and differing complications.
Medical treatment aims at palliating symptoms and improving the patient's quality of life.
Surgical treatment is indicated when medical therapy fails or when complications develop. Surgical options and strategies depend upon the pattern of disease and the extent of complications.