Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) comprises two major chronic relapsing and remitting disorders: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Both diseases often affect relatively young patients and may have great influence on the rest of their lives. Despite recent progress in medical therapy, the majority of patients with Crohn’s disease will eventually develop complications, including fistulas or strictures, necessitating surgery. Approximately 30% of patients with ulcerative colitis will have to undergo a proctocolectomy for …