Membranous duodenal stenosis: initial experience with balloon dilatation in four children

R R van Rijn1, K P van Lienden, T L Fortuna

  • 1Department of Radiology, Academic Medical Centre Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

Insights

This study introduces balloon dilatation as a new treatment for membranous duodenal stenosis (MDS) in infants. The minimally invasive procedure showed a 100% success rate with no complications, offering a safe alternative to surgery.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Interventional Radiology
  • Neonatal Surgery

Background:

  • Membranous duodenal stenosis (MDS) is a rare congenital obstruction.
  • Surgical intervention has historically been the primary treatment for MDS.
  • A minimally invasive approach for MDS is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe a novel technique for treating membranous duodenal stenosis (MDS) using balloon dilatation.
  • To evaluate the safety and efficacy of per os balloon dilatation in neonates with MDS.

Main Methods:

  • Four neonates (2 male, 2 female) aged 8–28 days with MDS underwent duodenal balloon dilatation.
  • The procedure was performed under general anesthesia using standard angiography balloons inserted per os.
  • Balloon diameters ranged from 6 to 14 mm.

Main Results:

  • All four balloon dilatation procedures were technically successful.
  • No procedural or post-procedural complications were observed in any patient.
  • None of the patients required subsequent surgical intervention, and all are reportedly doing well.

Conclusions:

  • Balloon dilatation of membranous duodenal stenosis (MDS) demonstrated a 100% success rate in this initial cohort.
  • The technique appears safe and effective, with no complications reported.
  • Per os balloon dilatation may be a viable, safe alternative to surgery for MDS, performable by experienced interventional radiologists.
Abstract