Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a broad term used to describe chronic or recurring conditions that cause the inflammation of the inner lining of the gastrointestinal tract. These conditions are usually associated with symptoms including diarrhea, abdominal pain, fatigue and weight loss.

IBD is composed of two diseases:

• Ulcerative colitis: causes an inflammation of the inner lining of the large intestine
• Crohn’s disease: inflammation anywhere within the GI tract

To provide the most accurate diagnosis for IBD, the gastroenterologists at Northwell Health provide:

• Advanced diagnostic procedures: In addition to standard endoscopies, Northwell physicians offer advanced endoscopy procedures including contrast dye colonoscopy, double balloon endoscopy, endoscopic mucosal resection and stricture dilations.
• ​Technology and expertise: At Northwell Health, clinical experts utilize the latest in technology to more accurately diagnoses and treat a condition. This technology includes the use of high-powered imaging devices like video capsule endoscopy cameras and magnetic resonance enterography that provide detailed images of the gastrointestinal tract.

There is no known cure for inflammatory bowel disease, but conventional treatments are rapidly evolving, and include immunosuppressants and biologic therapies.  Nutrition and gut microflora are also involved and are currently being research at our institutions. Some patients do not respond to commonly used IBD therapies, and Northwell Health offers exclusive clinical trials that provide access to newest available therapies before they become available to the general public.