Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 28, 2026

Endoscopic Vacuum Therapy for the Treatment of Anastomotic Leakage after Total Gastrectomy with Esophagojejunostomy
Published on: August 22, 2025
Balloon dilatation of anastomotic intestinal stenoses: long-term results
D Fregonese1, G Di Falco, F Di Toma
1Department of Surgery, Regional General Hospital of Treviso, Italy.
Insights
Balloon dilatation is a safe and effective treatment for anastomotic intestinal strictures, including esophageal and colon stenosis. This minimally invasive procedure offers high success rates with minimal complications and relapses.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Innovation
Background:
- Anastomotic intestinal strictures can significantly impact patient quality of life.
- Traditional treatments may be invasive or less effective for certain stricture types.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of balloon dilatation for treating anastomotic intestinal strictures.
- To assess long-term outcomes and complication rates associated with the procedure.
Main Methods:
- A consecutive series of 59 patients with anastomotic intestinal strictures (esophageal and colon) were treated.
- Balloon catheter placement was guided by fluoroscopic and endoscopic control.
- Patients underwent one to five dilatation sessions, with outcomes assessed clinically.
Main Results:
- No initial treatment failures were observed in 59 patients.
- Stricture relapse occurred in 10.1% of cases within 2-5 months, with repeat dilatation achieving 100% success.
- All patients with esophageal strictures could consume solid food post-dilatation, with a mean follow-up of 26.5 months.
Conclusions:
- Balloon dilatation is a safe and reliable method for treating anastomotic intestinal strictures.
- The technique is particularly effective for stenoses with small diameters and tortuous anatomy.
- The procedure demonstrates a low complication rate and favorable long-term outcomes.
Abstract:
Since 1983 we have treated 59 consecutive patients with anastomotic intestinal strictures. In 43 cases the stenosis was located in the esophagus, and in 16 cases in the colon. The balloon catheter was positioned under fluoroscopic and endoscopic control. The number of dilatations required by each patient ranged from one to five, with 47% of our patients receiving only one session, and 23% two sessions. We had no initial treatment failures. We observed stricture relapse in 10.1% of our cases, occurring within two to five months. In these patients repeat dilatation was 100% successful. We had no significant complications. All the patients with esophageal stricture were able to eat solid food after dilatation. Long-term results and relapse-free intervals have been assessed on a clinical basis with a mean follow-up of 26.5 months. Balloon dilatation would seem a safe and reliable method of treating anastomotic strictures, with special emphasis on stenosis with a small diameter, and tortuosity of the gut.
Related Concept Videos
Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care
Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:

