UT Southwestern Medical Center’s Crohn’s and Colitis Program is the first of its kind in Texas. Our program features a collaborative team of gastroenterologists, colorectal surgeons, and imaging specialists, as well as basic science researchers who continually seek new information about the nature of these diseases and new ways to improve treatment outcomes for patients.
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis (UC) are the primary chronic diseases associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Inflammation of the intestinal tract, which often leads to ulcers, fistulae, or obstructions, characterizes the diseases. Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anal area, while UC strikes the inner lining of the large intestine or the rectum.
Without proper management of the diseases, patients can suffer from abdominal pain, anemia, diarrhea, weight loss, malnutrition, and cancer.
An initial visit with an IBD specialist typically includes tests and/or studies to determine the exact nature of your disease. After testing, your physician then determines the most appropriate course of treatment.
Standard treatments include:
Our patients have access to promising new treatments through phase II and III clinical trials, and a specially trained IBD research coordinator assists them throughout their participation.