The inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), consisting of ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD), are characterized by idiopathic, chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. The overall incidence of IBDs is constantly increasing in eastern countries. In comparison with the data from western nations, in China, the incidence of male IBDs is relatively higher, the onset age is older. The severity of most cases is mild to moderate. The occurrence of fistula and peri-anal involvement are rare. Although significant improvements of IBDs therapy have been achieved in recent years, there are still over 30% UC and 70% CD cases need at least one surgery throughout their life span. Here we review the literatures published in recent years about the surgical management of IBDs.