The Valley Center for Digestive Health offers a comprehensive Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Program designed to help patients achieve lasting remission and improved quality of life. The program’s multidisciplinary team combines advanced medical therapies, diagnostics, and supportive care, all in one coordinated program.
Patients benefit from seamless access to board-certified gastroenterologists, colorectal surgeons, advanced practice providers, specialized nurses, and registered dietitians – all experienced in managing complex IBD.
A call to the IBD Program’s nurse navigator is the first step toward taking charge of your IBD. Call 201-614-6130 to get started.
What Is IBD?
IBD refers to two chronic conditions that result from an abnormal immune system response: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract and often involves deeper layers of the bowel wall.
Key features:
- Patchy inflammation (“skip lesions”)
- Risk of strictures and fistulas
- May require surgery over time
Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis affects the colon (large intestine) and rectum in a continuous pattern.
Key features:
- Inflammation limited to the inner lining of the colon
- Symptoms include bleeding and urgency
- Increased colorectal cancer risk over time
IBD is a systemic condition, meaning it can also affect the joints, skin, eyes, and liver.
What Causes IBD?
The exact cause of IBD is unknown, but it is believed to result from a combination of:
- Immune system dysregulation
- Genetic predisposition
- Gut microbiome imbalance
- Environmental triggers (diet, smoking, medications, stress)
Common Symptoms of IBD
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Diarrhea or urgency
- Rectal bleeding
- Fatigue and weight loss
- Anemia
In children, IBD may also cause growth delay and delayed puberty.
Potential IBD Complications
Without proper treatment, IBD may lead to:
- Strictures or bowel narrowing
- Abscesses and fistulas
- Blood clots
- Malnutrition and dehydration
- Increased risk of colorectal cancer
IBD vs. IBS: What’s the Difference?
Although symptoms may overlap, IBD and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are fundamentally different:
- IBD causes true inflammation and structural damage to the intestines.
- IBS is a functional disorder that does not cause inflammation.
IBD requires specialized medical care and long-term monitoring. IBS is typically managed with lifestyle and dietary adjustments.
Advanced IBD Diagnosis and Monitoring
Accurate diagnosis and ongoing monitoring are critical to preventing disease progression.
Valley’s IBD Program offers the following diagnostic capabilities:
- Advanced endoscopy and chromoendoscopy
- High-resolution imaging (MRI, CT)
- Capsule endoscopy
- Comprehensive lab and biomarker testing
- Precision pathology and biopsy interpretation
IBD Treatment Options at Valley
IBD treatment is highly individualized. The goal at the IBD Program is to achieve deep remission – symptom control and healing of intestinal inflammation.
Medical Therapies
- Biologic therapies targeting specific inflammatory pathways
- Advanced oral therapies (including JAK inhibitors and S1P modulators)
- Immunomodulators and corticosteroids
- Nutritional and microbiome-directed therapies
Surgical Expertise
When needed, the program’s colorectal surgeons provide advanced, minimally invasive procedures, including bowel-sparing techniques and restorative surgeries.
Nutrition, Lifestyle, and Integrative Care
At Valley, patients also have access to:
- Registered dietitians specializing in IBD nutrition
- Personalized dietary guidance
- Integrative therapies (acupuncture, massage, stress reduction)
- Behavioral health support
Ongoing Care and Prevention
IBD is a lifelong condition that requires proactive management. Valley’s IBD Program focuses on:
- Preventing flares and complications
- Routine surveillance, including colon cancer screening
- Vaccination and infection prevention
- Patient education and long-term care planning
Why Choose Valley for IBD Care?
- Multidisciplinary Expertise: A dedicated IBD team works together to deliver coordinated, high-level care.
- Advanced Therapies, Close to Home: We offeraccess to the latest treatments and clinical approaches typically available only at major academic centers.
- Personalized, Patient-Centered Approach: Our team takes plenty of time to understand each patient’s goals, concerns, and lifestyle.
- Support for Every Stage of Life: Specialized care is for adolescents, young adults, and complex cases.
- Support and Resources: Valley’s IBD Program partners with organizations such as the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation to provide patients with additional education, support groups, and community resources.
