Online Crohn's Surgery Info Often Falls Short

Did you know? Most patients with Crohn's disease undergo at least one bowel resection in their lifetime, yet online information about this common surgery is often incomplete or too complex.

Researchers analyzed 27 websites providing patient information on bowel resection for Crohn’s disease. The findings revealed significant gaps: one-third of sites didn’t discuss different types of resections, and only 8 mentioned ileocolic resection—the most commonly performed procedure. Information on post-surgery management appeared in just 6 sources, while lifestyle changes were covered in only 11. The average quality score was 3.1 out of 5, indicating moderate quality, and some sites contained factually incorrect information. Perhaps most concerning, the average readability level required A-levels or equivalent education to fully understand—potentially excluding many patients. The study highlights the need for patient involvement in developing health-related websites alongside medical professionals to ensure accurate, accessible surgical information.

Source: PMID 41524135 (Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England, 2026)