Predictors for recurrence following surgery for Crohn's disease

Crohn's disease (CD) can lead to surgical resection in many cases, however, there is disagreement regarding the appropriate indication, timing and type of surgery that should be carried out. A study performed in Stockholm during 1955-1990 diagnosed and monitored 1936 patients with CD to investigate the factors determining the outcome after different types of surgery. A total of 73% of these patients had at least one bowel resection. Young age at onset, female gender and a history of perianal fistulae were associated with a higher, overall, 10-year cumulative recurrence rate. In addition, small bowel or ileocolonic involvement at onset also carried a higher risk of recurrent disease, particularly in women. Obstruction or failure of medical therapy as indications for surgery are also associated with more frequent recurrences.