Risk factors for Crohn's disease - Recurrence after surgery

Over recent years, several factors have been associated with an increased risk of recurrence of Crohn's disease (CD). There is now no doubt that disease type and location, disease duration at the time of operation, and smoking habit are not only risk factors for an early recurrence of CD, but are also markers of a more aggressive disease. Clinically-severe CD with resistance to medical therapy has been identified as the main factor affecting recurrence rate. In these cases, medical therapy after the operation is suggested in order to prevent, delay or reduce the intensity of recurrent disease.