Diverticular Stricture

What Is a Colon Stricture?
A colon stricture is a narrowing of the colon that can block the normal passage of stool. This can cause discomfort and interfere with digestion, potentially leading to complications if untreated.

Causes
Strictures can develop due to chronic inflammation or other underlying conditions. Common causes include:

• Inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
• Hernia (protrusion of colon tissue)
• Bacterial infections in the stomach or intestines
• Tumors in the colon
• Radiation therapy affecting the abdomen or pelvis
• Reduced blood flow to the colon

Symptoms
Symptoms of a colon stricture may vary from mild to severe, depending on the degree of narrowing. They can include:

• Difficulty having bowel movements
• Nausea or vomiting
• Abdominal cramping, bloating, or pain
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue

Diagnosis
Commonly, patients get referred to us with this diagnosis after visiting their gastroenterologist or primary physician. Our specialists diagnose colon strictures using a combination of medical history, physical exam, and imaging tests:

• Physical exam to check for abdominal tenderness
• Blood tests to look for signs of infection or inflammation
• CT scan – The most precise tool, providing detailed images of the colon and surrounding structures to identify any narrowing or abnormalities

Treatment
Treatment depends on the type of stricture and the severity of symptoms. When patients are failing medical treatment, they are often referred to us for surgical evaluation and care to fix this problem. With timely treatment, patients can often regain normal bowel function and prevent further complications.

Our surgeons often use minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopic or Da Vinci® robotic-assisted surgery, which allow for greater precision, faster recovery, reduced pain, and fewer complications.