Anyone had experience of dilation due to stricture? I've had an ileostomy since Sept 2014 and following a scan to check the join in my bowel was ok was told that the diameter of the join was 1cm and so have been referred for a dilation. My understanding is that I will have this done and then be referred back for another scan - and this will determine whether a reversal can then be considered. If the join is not widened the consultant is concerned that I will experience blockages and pain following a reversal and so need to try and resolve this first. I've read that the need for more than one dilation is quite common but would be grateful for people's experience - ie is it painful afterwards, what success (or not) have experienced etc? Any info would be really helpful.
OstoAI is the first Artificial Intelligence assistant for people with an ostomy. It's powered by MeetAnOstoMate.org and offers instant, detailed advice on ostomy-related topics. Members have been using it since 2023.
Create an account to use it.
I had a dilation done prior to my ileostomy reversal. It is not a problem. It is not painful and was done during a colonoscopy. They simple use a balloon that they inflate at the stricture point. Voila, no more stricture. I had the reversal 4 months after that procedure. Everything is perfect now. Good luck.
About MeetAnOstoMate
MeetAnOstoMate is not a typical ostomy site - it's a unique community where people connect, talk openly, share laughs, make friends, and even find relationships all with others who understand life with an ostomy.
We currently enjoy 39,575 members.
Create Account
Had an ileostomy since 2011 & this is the first time, I've developed a stricture. I've had to go in twice for dilation..(since beginning of year)It's just like a regular scope, in which they drug you but insert a ballon-type thing to dilate. I also had to purchase a dilation kit & now have to insert every night to keep the area open. It's where my small intestine was connected to the rectum. If it doesn't stay open, there's a good chance of infection & it will create other problems, my doctor said.
The good news is that you can avoid them with some small changes in your diet.
Sunnyside - please describe the condition of your colon. Where is the stricture? In the large bowel, the balloon process usually works well unless the joint was done poorly. Good luck.
I had three dilations in the hospital and they did help for a short time, but within about two months I was back to liquids only. Currently booking a new dilation and stoma colonoscopy to try to help with the possibility of a future stent. Hoping the procedures work 🙏❤️🇨🇦. Really hope you are doing well!
Getting Support in the Ostomy Community with LeeAnne Hayden | Hollister
