[Surgical therapy of Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis]

Surgical treatment of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis is standardized today, despite several unresolved problems. Cooperation between gastroenterologist and surgeon is essential to establish the indication for surgery in emergency situations and during the chronic phase, as well. The surgical procedures aim for maximum preservation of function; in Crohn's disease salvage of bowel by means of limited resections and strictureplasty has priority, whilst in ulcerative colitis the preservation of sphincter function is the paramount goal, wherever possible, by means of ileorectostomy and ileal pouch procedures.