Intestinal Conditions

The gastrointestinal tract (GI tract) is a long tube in the digestive system that starts at the mouth and ends at the anus. Food travels from the mouth down the GI tract and is digested by the body or expelled as feces. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a general term for chronic inflammatory disorders of the small intestine and large intestine, also known as the bowels. The most common disorders are Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and regional enteritis.

Colorectal surgeons in the Division of General and Gastrointestinal Surgery at Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH) are part of BWH’s Crohn’s and Colitis Center, a unique multidisciplinary model in the care of patients with IBD. Our board certified colorectal surgeons have advanced training in colorectal surgery and join an integrated team of IBD specialists—leading the way in innovative diagnosis and treatment options, including minimally invasive surgical techniques that preserve healthy bowels, reduce flare-ups and speed recovery.

Known worldwide for their expertise in treating colorectal conditions, our surgeons are faculty members at Harvard Medical School and train the next generation of surgeons through BWH’s Colorectal Surgery Fellowship Program. General and gastrointestinal surgery services are available at multiple locations in and around Boston.

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