Abstract
Management of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can be extremely challenging and difficult. IBD patients, however, must be well aware of all therapy options and must be involved in the decision-making process. Both medical and surgical therapies have their own resultant toxicity and morbidity which must be taken into consideration. Gastroenterologists and surgeons must come together in their thinking about IBD patients and continue to undertake trials of both medical and surgical therapies in order to determine the best management for any individual patient. Topics including controversies related to the pelvic pouch procedure, stricturoplasty in the management of Crohn’s disease, assessment of trials using methotrexate and cyclosporine, and toxicity of medications and surgery are highlighted.