Balloon dilation

Balloon dilation is a relatively new procedure that aims to widen the intestines when the development of strictures causes them to narrow.

The surgeon guides an uninflated balloon attached to a long, thin tube through the intestineThe section of gut, or gastrointestinal tract, from the stomach to the anus. via the anusThe external opening of the back passage, the rectum.. The balloon is inflated at the point of the stricture.

Balloon dilation is currently used to avoid or postpone other surgical procedures that are more complicated and involve cutting the intestineThe section of gut, or gastrointestinal tract, from the stomach to the anus.. This is a new technique and research has yet to show its advantages.