[Late results of total colectomies for inflammatory colitis]

A retrospective study of 41 patients colectomized for inflammatory colitis has been conducted with a mean follow-up of 90 months. The results of rectum preservation and of ileo-rectal anastomoses were disappointing, with a respective success rate of 15% and 44%. 15% of patients had a change of diagnosis after colectomy, all in favour of undetected Crohn's disease. The results of mucosal proctectomy with ileoanal anastomosis are highly encouraging. An attempt is made to specify the indications for each type of surgery.