[Ulcerative colitis - indications for surgery and methods of treatment (author's transl)]

Morphology, clinical signs and symptoms as well as surgical therapy of ulcerative colitis are discussed comparing own findings with results reported in the literature. Case reports are given of 48 patients with special emphasis on indications for surgical treatment, methods of surgery and complications. Timing of surgery and medical pretreatment do play a decisive role. The treatment of choice today is proctocolectomy with terminal ileostomy in one session; more serious complications as well as transition into a carcinoma can thus be avoided. In some acute cases a fistula-operation may be indicated for short-term relief.