Early ileocaecal resection versus biologics therapy for localized Crohn disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Colorectal DisSep 1, 2026
Sara Bravin, Ana L R S Menegat, Brenda L R S Menegat et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated early ileocaecal resection versus biologics therapy in 1,644 patients with localized Crohn's disease. The study found that fewer patients in the resection group required additional surgery compared to those receiving biologics therapy (RR 0.09; 95% CI 0.03-0.24; p=0.01).
Key findings
- Fewer patients in the resection group required additional surgery compared to the biologics group (RR 0.09; 95% CI 0.03-0.24; p=0.01).
- Nearly half of the resection group (48%) were off medication without further treatment at final follow-up.
- All patients treated with biologics required ongoing medical therapy or surgery.
Why it matters
The findings suggest that early ileocaecal resection may be a viable alternative to biologics therapy for patients with localized Crohn's disease, potentially reducing the need for subsequent treatments.
What to keep in mind
The evidence base is limited, and the certainty of evidence is low to very low as per GRADE assessment.