Reoperation and Recurrence in Crohn's Colitis and Ileocolitis

Abstract

To determine the risks of reoperation and clinical recurrence in Crohn's disease involving the colon, we analyzed by both crude and actuarial (life-table) methods follow-up data from 160 patients hospitalized with Crohn's colitis or ileocolitis from 1964 through 1973. A total of 100 patients (63 per cent) underwent major operation; of these, 58 required reoperation. By the 15th year after initial operation, there was a cumulative reoperation rate of 89 and an overall clinical recurrence rate of 94 per cent.