Surgical results in Crohn's disease: —An analysis in view of cumulative risk of recurrence and reoperation—

Forty nine cases with Crohn's disease operated at our department were analyzed in view of cumulative risk of reoperation and recurrence. Cumulative risk of reoperation was 22% at five years and 40% at ten years. Cumulative risk of recurrence after “curative” resection in thirty four cases was 53% at five years and 73% at ten years. Both risks were the highest in ileal type and the lowest in colonic type. Cumulative risk of relapse in ileocolic type after non-“curative” resection was 67% at five and ten years, which showed no significant difference with cumulative risk of recurrence after “curative” resection. Cumulative risk of recurrence after “curative” resection with proximal resection margin longer than 10 cm had no significant difference from the group with shorter margin. Cumulative risk of recurrence and reoperation after reoperation was a little higher than after initial operation, but they showed no statistical difference. In conclusion, there is no need to stick to “curative” resection, and it is enough to have the resection margin no longer than 10 cm. It is essential not to spoil the quality of life by excessive resection.