Why is it important?
Laparoscopic operations are increasingly being offered for IBD surgery. These offer a number of advantages for patients, including:
- Less pain after the operation
- Smaller scars
- Faster recovery – for example, being able to eat and drink more quickly after the operation
- Reduced risk of a wound infection or a hernia
- A shorter stay in hospital
- Better fertility results for women
Patients undergoing surgery for small bowel and terminal ileal Crohn’s Disease should undergo a laparoscopic approach when this can be carried out safely. There is also good evidence for this approach for more complex operations where appropriate expertise exists.123 Robotic surgery holds promise for enhanced visualization and precision in complex pelvic procedures.
Both Crohn’s resection and restorative proctocolectomy are better performed laparoscopically in children. Surgeons unable to offer this modality should consider either referral to a centre where this is available, or having an appropriate surgeon attend the procedure to mentor them.
Children undergoing resectional surgery for Ulcerative Colitis or Indeterminate Colitis should be offered a laparoscopic ileoanal pouch since this leads to the best quality of life.