Endoscopic dilation of rectal strictures: a prospective study of 18 cases.

Abstract

This study was performed to prospectively evaluate results of endoscopic balloon dilation of strictures of the rectum. Eighteen patients with symptoms of rectal strictures at endoscopy or barium enema were treated on 49 occasions with balloon dilation during sigmoidoscopy. Twelve patients were completely satisfied with relief of their symptoms after treatment. Two patients considered the results as poor, and four patients were not subject to follow-up evaluation. One patient had a perforation during the dilation procedure but was completely relieved at follow-up examination. Endoscopic balloon dilation of strictures in the rectum is a safe method. The method is simple and can be performed on an outpatient basis. The technique shows good results even in narrow strictures.