[Treatment of perianal Crohn's disease]

Abstract

Perianal affectation due to Crohn's disease includes a wide spectrum of lesions involving different management and prognosis. A thorough exploration of the patient, under anaesthetic if necessary, a rectoscope to evaluate the possible affectation of the rectum by the disease, and on occasions evaluation through endoanal echography or magnetic resonance, are the bases for a correct diagnostic and therapeutic focus. Pharmacology and surgery must be complementary in the treatment of perianal Crohn's disease and must pursue a double aim: to alleviate the symptomology of the patient and prevent possible complications. Except in situations of emergency due to perianal sepsis, medical treatment is the first step in managing perianal Crohn's disease, and on many occasions it will control the disease, making surgery unnecessary. When surgery is required, with the aim of a definitive treatment of the perianal lesion, the risk of developing complications, especially incontinence, must be contrasted.