Endoscopic balloon dilatation after rectal mesalazine treatment within an uncertainty of colonic anastomosis

Although anastomotic strictures are a recognized complication of colorectal surgery, complete colonic anastomotic obstruction from benign disease is rare. A benign stricture is a relatively common complication of colorectal anastomosis after low anterior resection and may develop colonic anastomosis in 5%-22% of cases. Today, endoscopic interventions have become the preferred first-line treatment for postoperative large bowel strictures. A variety of endoscopic techniques have been described, but there is a lack of data from controlled prospective trials regarding the optimal approach. In this study, a case of severe anastomotic stricture of the colon, during which endoscopic balloon dilatation was performed, is presented. After a one-week course of treatment with rectal mesalazine, the ambulatory patient underwent balloon dilation only once and the stricture resolved. Rectal mesalazine administration had a positive effect on the inflammatory process at the site of stenosis and reduced the number of balloon dilatations. Endoscopic balloon dilatation has been used since 1985 for the treatment of colorectal strictures. It is a minimally invasive method, has a high success rate, can be performed safely under visual control, can be performed repeatedly, and does not require hospitalization