GI Strictures
What are GI strictures?
In medical terms, a stricture is defined as an abnormal narrowing of a bodily passage and is generally caused by abnormal contraction of smooth muscle. A stenosis is an abnormal narrowing that is caused by a lesion that is decreasing the size of the lumen of the bodily passage. Strictures and stenoses have multiple causes and can be found throughout the GI tract.
What are the symptoms of strictures?
The symptoms caused by strictures and stenosis are unique to the affected part of the GI tract. Esophageal strictures can cause difficulty with swallowing. Bile duct strictures can cause pain and jaundice. Colonic or anal strictures can cause lower abdominal pain, constipation and difficulty with having bowel movements.
How are strictures diagnosed?
A gastroenterologist is needed to differentiate if your symptoms are caused by a stricture or a stenosis. This is accomplished through a variety of imaging procedures including, but not limited to, CT scans, MRI, ultrasounds, EGD, colonoscopy, ERCP, and EUS. The symptoms are very different depending on the bodily passage that is “narrowed.”
How are strictures treated?
The treatment for both strictures and stenosis ultimately depends upon the causative agent. Most gastrointestinal strictures/stenosis are treated with a combination of medical therapy and procedural therapy such as dilation (stretching) of the affected bodily lumen. Sometimes the use of plastic or metal stents are also utilized to help treat strictures long-term.
Our experienced team of physicians and advanced practice providers at Associates in Gastroenterology can help you with your concerns, questions and management of all aspects of gastrointestinal and liver disease. We would love to be your gastroenterology practice. Please schedule an appointment either by calling us (719-635-7321) or by clicking here.
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