Surgery for IBD, or Inflammatory Bowel Disease

IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) surgery may be a viable treatment option for people with inflammatory bowel diseases, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. While many patients are able to manage their IBD symptoms through nonsurgical approaches like medication and diet modification, IBD surgery has the potential to provide long-term symptom relief and a better quality of life.

Surgery for gastrointestinal disorders can vary depending on the patient’s specific diagnosis and overall health. In general, though, here is a brief overview of the IBD surgical treatments for ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease:

• Ulcerative colitis surgery usually involves removing the colon and rectum. Because all diseased tissue is removed, this type of surgery essentially cures ulcerative colitis and may eliminate the need for further medication and treatment. Depending on the surgical approach, some patients may require long-term use of a colostomy bag to expel waste after the procedure.
• Crohn’s disease surgery may take one of several forms depending on the patient’s unique situation. Some cases may require total removal of the colon, while other patients may only need to have portions of their intestines removed. Surgery may also be recommended to widen sections of the intestines or remove abscesses and fistulas that produce uncomfortable symptoms.  

Nationally Recognized Care

Tampa General Hospital’s Endoscopy Center offers the latest advances in IBD surgery from world-class specialists. Patients with ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease and other gastrointestinal disorders receive individualized attention during every step of the care process, from diagnosis through recovery. Thanks in part to our personalized approached to IBD surgery and our advanced surgical techniques, Tampa General Hospital is recognized as Top 20 in the Nation and the Highest-Ranked Hospital in Florida for Gastroenterology & GI Surgery by U.S. News & World Report 2023-24.

To explore your IBD surgery options with a TGH gastroenterologist, call 1-800-822-3627 or take advantage of our convenient online Physician Finder.