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General Surgery Associates, PLLC

COLON & ANAL CONDITIONS

Crohn’s disease

Medical treatment and surgery have different roles.

Understanding the condition

Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that can affect different parts of the digestive tract. Narrowing, fistulas and abscesses may complicate the inflammation.

What the evaluation looks for

The assessment identifies where disease is active and whether symptoms are driven by inflammation, fixed narrowing or infection. Gastroenterology and surgery often work together.

How treatment is chosen

Medicines are central to management. Surgery may be needed for obstruction, an abscess, fistulas or disease that is not adequately controlled. Removing an affected segment does not cure Crohn’s disease, so ongoing medical follow-up remains important. Nutrition and bowel preservation influence planning.

Questions worth asking

  • Is my current problem inflammation or a structural complication?
  • Can drainage or medication address it?
  • How will treatment continue after surgery?

When to seek help promptly

Severe pain, fever, persistent vomiting or dehydration requires prompt evaluation.

Patient resources

KEEP EXPLORING

Understand the next step.

Use these guides to prepare questions for your treating clinician.

All condition guides →