Inflammatory Bowel (Crohn’s) Disease Treatment in India
What is Inflammatory Bowel (Crohn’s) Disease?
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) refers to a group of disorders characterized by inflammation and swelling of the intestines. This occurs when the body's immune system mounts a response against its own intestinal tissue.
Crohn's disease (CD) and Ulcerative Colitis (UC) represent the two main types of inflammatory bowel disease. Crohn's disease can impact either the colon or the small intestine, affecting any part of the gastrointestinal tract. It leads to symptoms such as malnutrition, abdominal pain, and severe diarrhea. On the other hand, Ulcerative colitis primarily affects the large intestine (colon), causing persistent inflammation in a segment of the digestive tract.
Symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
During flare-ups of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) in chronic conditions, various symptoms may manifest, with the possibility of them subsiding or diminishing, allowing a person to return to their usual state of health. The severity of IBD symptoms ranges from mild to severe, depending on the specific segment of the intestinal tract involved. Some of the symptoms include :
Causes of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
The precise cause of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is not clearly defined. However, it is believed to result from the malfunctioning of the body's immune system. There is a genetic component to IBD, as both Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's disease can be observed in the family history of affected individuals. Additionally, certain environmental factors may contribute to the development of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. IBD is a complex condition influenced by psychological, infectious, immunologic, and genetic factors.
Diagnosis for Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Complete Blood Count :
Stool Examination :
Colonoscopy : Colonoscopy is a medical procedure used for the examination of the colon (large intestine) and the rectum. It involves the use of a flexible, lighted tube with a camera at its end, called a colonoscope. The colonoscope is inserted into the rectum and advanced through the entire colon. This procedure allows healthcare professionals to visually inspect the lining of the colon, identify abnormalities such as polyps, tumors, or inflammation, and even take tissue samples (biopsies) for further analysis. Colonoscopy is a valuable diagnostic and preventive tool for detecting and preventing colorectal cancer and other gastrointestinal conditions.
Barium X-ray :
Sigmoidoscopy : A sigmoidoscope is utilized to visualize the final one-third section of the large intestine, encompassing the sigmoid colon and the rectum. This diagnostic test is instrumental in the examination of issues such as bleeding, ulcers, and inflammation in this specific portion of the large intestine.
Upper Endoscopy : In cases where patients exhibit gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and nausea, an endoscope is employed for examination. The duodenum, esophagus, and stomach are scrutinized through the use of this specialized instrument.
Treatments for Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), encompassing ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, offers both surgical and medical treatment options. Various drugs are available to address both types of IBD, providing effective management. Surgery, considered as a final resort, is dependent on the specific type of inflammatory bowel disease. Ulcerative colitis, for instance, can be addressed through surgical intervention, while certain medications also prove beneficial in the treatment of IBD.
Robot Surgery for Inflammatory Bowel Disease
DA Vinci robotic surgery represents a minimally invasive approach characterized by reduced scarring, smaller incisions, and expedited recovery. It stands out as an optimal treatment for ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, showcasing superior outcomes. The procedure employs patented surgical instruments, an advanced surgical platform, and high-definition vision. This innovative approach effectively mitigates the side effects associated with inflammatory bowel disease.
Benefits of Inflammatory Bowel Disease Treatment
Following the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), there is a notable enhancement in the health-related quality of life for patients. This improvement is observed in individuals affected by both ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
Intestinal Fistulas
Intestinal fistulas refer to tubular connections that form between the skin, the bowel, or other organs. These fistulas develop when prolonged inflammation extends through all layers of the bowel, leading them to tunnel through adjacent tissue layers. They are often more prevalent in Crohn's disease. Fistulas can establish connections between the bowel and the skin surrounding the anus, the abdominal wall, other loops of the bowel, as well as internal locations such as the scrotum, vagina, urinary bladder, and muscles.
Cost of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
In India, the treatment for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is not only affordable but also offers excellent medical guidance and services to patients.