Advancing Health A CASE STUDY from MedStar Colorectal Surgery

Curing : Laparoscopic Total Procto-colectomy with J-Pouch Formation

Allen Chudzinski, MD MedStar Colorectal Surgery Program at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital

Abstract A young female patient with a one-year history of ulcerative colitis refractory to medical management underwent laparoscopic total procto-colectomy with J-pouch formation. One month post surgery, all prior colitis medication has been discontinued and the patient is asymptomatic. This case study illustrates that specialized surgical intervention is a safe and successful option for curing ulcerative colitis. CASE STUDY Curing Ulcerative Colitis

Patient Presentation Treatment • A 17-year-old female presented • Laparoscopic total procto- with a one-year history of poorly colectomy with ileo-anal controlled ulcerative colitis and anastomosis (J-pouch formation) profound anemia. and diverting loop . • Patient presented with complaints • CT scan and flexible of 10 or more loose stools daily, pouchoscopy were used to assess hematochezia, tenesmus, peri- the J-pouch prior to ileostomy rectal pain with bowel take-down. movements, abdominal pain, • Flexible was recent 10-pound weight loss, normal and CT scan revealed no severe fatigue, and arthralgia of extraluminal extravasation of oral the knees, ankles, and left or rectal contrast. shoulder. • Eight weeks post procedure the • Medical therapies tried and failed patient had an ileostomy take- include prednisone and down via a peristomal approach. infliximab. Currently taking oral iron supplementation twice a day for anemia. Results/Outcomes • Last two years ago revealed active left colitis with • Two weeks post ileostomy focal cryptitis and neutrophilic take-down the patient reported infiltrate. Pathology was negative significant improvement in her for malignancy and Crohn’s symptoms. She is having four to disease. six controlled bowel movements a day with no urgency or incontinence. • Digital rectal exam was limited Her weight is stable and appetite secondary to active proctitis, but has increased. Her mood and revealed good sphincter tone and affect have significantly improved. squeeze. Conclusion • Minimally invasive surgery is a Diagnosis safe and successful option to • Ulcerative colitis refractory to improve quality of life and cure medical management. ulcerative colitis. The procedure allows patients to maintain anal function and avoid a permanent ileostomy while minimizing pain and shortening recovery time.

“Our minimally invasive surgical technique and enhanced recovery protocols allow for optimal medical and surgical care of complex Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis patients; it helps them recover more quickly, for a faster return to home and to a normal lifestyle. Our regional program provides in-depth care by experienced and fellowship- trained specialists that take into account the care of the entire patient: body and spirit.”

Allen Chudzinski, MD

Leading the Way: e Area’s Most Advanced Team of Fellowship-Trained and Board-Certified Colorectal Surgeons Our team of eight fellowship-trained, board-certified colon and rectal surgeons is the most experienced in the Greater Washington region and is nationally recognized for its expertise, commitment to excellence and professional leadership. Our colorectal specialists treat the most advanced, complex diseases and disorders of the colon, , and anus, including patients with multiple co-morbidities such as heart disease. All of the surgeons work collaboratively with other physicians to evaluate treatment options and to develop a comprehensive, integrated and coordinated care plan with each patient. Specializing in minimally invasive surgeries when possible, MedStar’s colorectal surgeons use state-of-the-art techniques that have reduced post-operative pain and shortened post-operative recovery time. F a • • M L • • • o t

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