ENDOSCOPIC BALLOON DILATION FOR SMALL BOWEL STRICTURES IN PATIENTS WITH CROHN’S DISEASE (WITH A VIDEO)

Abstract

Strictures of the small intestine are a significant complication in patients with Crohn’s disease. Their treatment remains a major challenge. Surgical resection cannot cure Crohn’s disease. Multiple resection of strictures may lead to short bowel syndrome. The development of balloon-assisted enteroscopy has enabled balloon dilation for strictures in the deep small bowel. Because balloon dilation can be repeatedly performed for recurrence of strictures, it may avoid or postpone the need for surgery. In this article, we introduce strategies and devices for endoscopic balloon dilation therapy for Crohn’s disease strictures.