Meds vs. Surgery

[Rex]

I'm going to start off by saying that I am so excited to have found you folks. I have been diagnosed for over 10 years with Crohn's and really don't know anyone else with the disease so I take each situation as it comes-- alone. I have been extremely lucky to only treat with meds and diet.

I recently received information that I have inflammation and scar tissue that is causing an area of concern. The doctor has suggested meds (Humira) or Resection of the small bowel. I have been doing a lot of reading on pro's and con's of each and its honestly just confusing me even more. I hate the idea of meds and would prefer to have the surgery just to be done. But don't want to just jump to a decision.

Has anyone had both the meds and surgery? Can you provide any insight as to what to expect? Preference? Any information would be helpful.

:sign0085:

Thanks.

 

[shamrock15]

Had both done, many times. Six surgeries and currently on the combo of remicade and imuran. All of my surgeries came before remicade, and I think 3 of them were before remicade even existed. Given the fact that I am almost a decade past the last surgery without any major issues, remicade clearly has done good for me. Remicade won't do much for existing scar tissue but can keep new areas from starting so meds may not take care of whatever you are currently dealing with. Only surgery will take care of scar tissue. If it is extensive it may be required for you to feel any benefits. If it is minimal, give the meds a try. Some of them do work really well.

 

[hawkeye]

Been on meds following diagnosis for 22 years before surgery for a stricture. The meds kept me in remission for quite a while , but once the stricture came along it was time for surgery. The message may buy you some time, but nothing will deal with the scar tissue except for surgery.

 

[ronroush7]

I have been on both meds and surgery. It has been almost six years since my resection. If I had to have another resection, I would do it. I honestly don't know which is better.

 

[Christi]

I think surgery in the long run could be helpfull its not a cure but will help , im also thinking about surgery

 

[DJW]

Hi and welcome.
I've been through both.

When I was originally diagnosed treatment was limited. I've had lots of issues with scar tissue. I've had more obstructions than I can count.

I'm now on Remicade in hopes of preventing future problems. It's a tough decision but in my case it was a no brainer. Surgery to treat the scare tissue and meds to try and prevent future problems.