COVID-19 & IBD: Surgical Recommendations

Patients are encouraged to proactively discuss any endoscopic procedures scheduled with their provider to determine the best course of action.

• There are procedures that are higher priority and may need to be performed (examples include cancer evaluations, prosthetic removals, evaluation of significant symptoms). 
• All patients should be pre-screened for high-risk exposure or symptoms. This screening should include history of fever or respiratory symptoms, family members or close contacts with similar symptoms, any contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19, and recent travel to a high-risk area. 
• Patients should continue taking their IBD medications and discuss any needed adjustments with their doctor. The risk of a disease flare outweighs the chance of contracting coronavirus. These patients should also follow CDC guidelines for at-risk groups by avoiding crowds and limiting travel. 

Last updated March 26, 2021