Radiologically guided dilatation of stenotic gastroduodenal anastomosis

A successful balloon catheter dilatation of stenotic gastroduodenal anastomosis is reported. The timing of such postoperative dilatations is crucial for avoiding rupture of the anastomosis or--in the late phase of healing--hard fibrous tissue inhibiting the dilatation. It is recommended that balloon catheter dilatation be the procedure of choice before making a decision about a second look operation.