MissMolly wrote:Susie:
Stenosis of your anastomosis site may be amenable to a type of balloon dilation.
Balloon dilation is pretty much as the name implies. A thin canula/tube (with a small deflated balloon/air pillow at the distal tip) is inserted through the anus and advanced to the area of intestinal narrowing. Pressurized air is then released into the tube, causing the balloon to inflate. As the balloon inflates, equal pressure is exerted on the wall of the intestine, slowly expanding and stretching the narrowed segment of intestine and restricting scar tissue.
A stent cage can be placed, if needed, to sustain the opening.
Balloon dilation is also used to widen the opening to an ostomy stoma. Scar tissue can be a problem in the 2-3 inches of intestine directly behind a stoma, causing a localized narrowing. The mechanics of surgically creating a stoma the intestine can also result in restricted flow (sometimes making a sharp curve in direction) that can be corrected with balloon dilation.
I just wanted to ease concerns that you may have. There are options other than additional surgery.
Karen
susie0915 wrote: I was wondering if anyone has experienced this. Thanks everyone.
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