What is the curative treatment for ulcerative colitis in severe cases?

In severe cases of ulcerative colitis, the curative treatment involves performing a colectomy, which is the surgical removal of the colon. This procedure can be particularly necessary for patients experiencing severe disease that does not respond to medical management or those with complications such as perforation or active bleeding.

A colectomy can lead to significant relief from symptoms and, for many patients, may be curative in that it eliminates the disease from the colon entirely. After surgery, the patient may have the option for an ileostomy or an internal pouch, depending on the extent of the disease and the specifics of the procedure performed.

In contrast, medication management is typically aimed at controlling symptoms and achieving remission rather than offering a cure. Dietary changes and stool softeners may support general well-being and help manage symptoms but do not address the underlying disease processes or provide a curative approach. Therefore, when considering a definitive solution for severe cases, a colectomy stands out as the direct method to remove the disease-affected colon.