Recurrence rates following ileo-colic resection in pediatric patients with Crohn’s disease

Background: Ileo-colic resection (ICR) is an important therapeutic option for Crohn’s disease (CD) patients. There are limited updated data of clinical and endoscopic post-operative recurrence (POR) in pediatric patients with CD for the long run. We aimed to determine recurrence rates following ICR over an extended period of time and asses its risk factors. Methods: This is a single-center retrospective review of 35 patients with CD between the ages of 6 and 17.9 years who required ICR between 2003 and 2021 at Schneider Children Medical Center of Israel. Medical charts were reviewed at different time-points post-ICR. Results: Clinical recurrence following ICR was demonstrated in only 11.4% and 28.6% (n = 4, n = 10) in the first two and five years—much lower rates than what was reported so far. We found no specific risk factor that correlated with clinical recurrence, although patients that were treated with early prophylaxis of anti-TNF medications following ICR tend to have less recurrence. Conclusions: We found lower POR following ICR, especially in the first years after surgery—which can be attributed to close surveillance and early medical treatment. Such surveillance seems to improve recurrence rates in the first years following ICR.