Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease

Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are designated as national incurable diseases called Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). The pathology and treatment of these diseases are complex and require highly specialized medical care, and our specialists are responsible for their care.

Ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic disease that causes inflammation and ulceration of the colon. This inflammation begins primarily in the rectum and spreads to other parts of the colon. The main symptoms of ulcerative colitis include diarrhea, bloody stools, abdominal pain, and sudden bowel movements. The disease varies from person to person and can range from mild to severe. Although the cause of ulcerative colitis is not entirely clear and there is currently no fundamental cure, it is often possible to control the disease with appropriate treatment and lead a social life similar to that of healthy people.

Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease is a disease that can cause inflammation throughout the entire digestive tract. Single to multiple inflammation can occur in any part of the body from the mouth to the anus,　but generally occurs late in the end of the small intestine and in the large intestine. Crohn’s disease can cause pain, diarrhea, and malnutrition. Systemic symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, and fever may also occur. Crohn’s disease is also a chronic disease whose cause is not entirely clear and requires appropriate treatment to slow disease progression and manage symptoms.

Endoscopy Specialties

Endoscopic examinations, which are essential for the diagnosis and understanding of the pathophysiology of IBD, are performed in a manner that reduces patient pain as much as possible.

Cutting-edge treatment options

We have access to a wide range of molecular targeted therapies, including the latest biologics and small molecule compounds, and have extensive experience in treating patients with these therapies. This allows us to develop optimal treatment plans tailored to each patient’s medical condition, approach, and lifestyle.

Convenience of Granulocyte Adsorption Therapy (GCAP)

Granulocyte adsorption therapy (GCAP) is provided in collaboration with a nearby dialysis clinic, allowing patients to receive treatment at a time convenient to their lifestyle.

Minimally Invasive Treatment Initiatives

When medication alone is not effective enough, endoscopic therapy, the least invasive treatment possible, is the first choice. This approach minimizes the burden on the patient’s body while achieving effective treatment.

Collaboration between gastroenterology and surgery

Both diseases are sometimes refractory to medical treatment and require surgery. In such cases, the Department of Gastroenterology and the Department of Surgery work closely together to provide the best surgical treatment at the best time for the patient.

Patient-Centered Decision Support (SDM)

We believe that the more complex a disease such as IBD is, the more patient-driven treatment should be. Therefore, we are committed to providing comprehensive information and support to our patients so that they can make the best decisions regarding their treatment.

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