Progressive colonic stenosis in an infant: Successful treatment with endoscopic balloon dilation

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Neonatal Care

Background:

• Acquired colonic stenosis is exceptionally rare in infants, with surgical resection being the standard treatment.
• Endoscopic balloon dilation is established for inflammatory bowel disease-related strictures but its use in infants for other causes is less explored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of endoscopic balloon dilation for treating acquired colonic stenosis in an infant.
• To present a case report on managing infant colonic stricture using a minimally invasive endoscopic technique.

Main Methods:

• A 4-week-old infant with progressive colonic stenosis and abdominal distension, secondary to balloon valvuloplasty, was treated.
• The colonic stenosis was managed using endoscopic balloon dilation.
• Clinical outcomes and imaging were assessed post-procedure and during follow-up.

Main Results:

• Successful endoscopic balloon dilation resolved the infant's colonic stenosis and relieved abdominal distension.
• Post-procedure imaging confirmed the absence of stricture.
• The infant showed no signs of constipation or lower gut obstruction during a 16-month follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Endoscopic balloon dilation is a promising, safe, and effective therapeutic option for infant colonic stenosis of various origins.
• This minimally invasive approach provides an alternative to surgical resection in select pediatric cases.