This is the Scientific Surgery Archive, which contains all randomized clinical trials in surgery that have been identified by searching the top 50 English language medical journal issues since January 1998. Compiled by Jonothan J. Earnshaw, former Editor-in-Chief, BJS
Strictureplasty. BJS 2004; 91: 1428-1437.
Published: 21st October 2004
Authors: P. Roy, D. Kumar
Background
Advances in the use of bowel‐sparing surgery for Crohn's disease have led to the development of strictureplasty as an important technique to conserve small bowel length and reduce morbidity associated with malabsorption.
Method
A literature review of long‐term studies on strictureplasty was undertaken, and evidence of its safety and efficacy was evaluated.
Results
The safety and efficacy of strictureplasty is confirmed in retrospective studies carried out over a period of 5–10 years, particularly when employed in patients at risk of short bowel syndrome, but certain questions regarding bowel function and disease activity after surgery remain unanswered. There is also concern that diseased tissue is left in situ after strictureplasty; this tissue has the potential for malignant transformation in the long term.
Conclusion
Strictureplasty has been used in surgery for Crohn's disease for the past 25 years. Studies have proven its efficacy in the treatment of carefully selected patients at risk of malabsorption owing to short bowel syndrome. Copyright © 2004 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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