A perforation is a hole in the bowel. The size, location, and seriousness of the hole can vary, so different treatment options may be available for different perforations. Small perforations often seal themselves off, so they may only require a few days in the hospital with close observation. More serious bowel perforations may require a surgery and possible repair or removal of the damaged area. Rarely, a colostomy bag may need to be placed temporarily or permanently after the damaged bowel is removed. This complication is less common in people with Crohn's disease compared to those with ulcerative colitis.

 

One of the more serious complications of Crohn's disease is called "toxic megacolon," which occurs when the large intestine stops working and expands suddenly. This can cause it to bleed excessively, or even rupture -- which can be very dangerous. Fortunately, this is a rare complication.

 

Crohn's disease may increase your risk of developing some forms of cancer. If the inflammation is mainly in your small intestine, your risk of cancer of the small intestine is increased. In people whose Crohn's disease affects the colon (large intestine), there is a slight increase in the risk for colon cancer. The risk of cancer gets higher the longer the colon has been affected and the more of it that's involved. For example, if only the lower colon and rectum are involved, the risk of colon or rectal cancer is not higher than normal. But, if the whole colon is involved, the risk of cancer may be as great as 32 times the normal rate.

 

Systemic Complications of Crohn's Disease Explained

 

Nutritional complications are common with Crohn's disease. Deficiencies of proteins, calories, and vitamins are well documented in people with Crohn's disease. These deficiencies may be caused by inadequate dietary intake, intestinal loss of protein, or poor absorption (known as malabsorption). Some of these deficiencies may involve calcium, zinc, magnesium, and phosphate. The healthcare provider may prescribe vitamins to prevent such deficiencies from occurring.