Endoscopic transanal rectal stricturoplasty.

This is a report of the techniques used and the outcome in two patients who underwent endoscopic transanal rectal stricturoplasty. Both patients had rectal strictures at the site of previous colorectal stapled anastomosis, and had failed to respond to balloon dilatation. The stricturoplasties were carried out with the use of a laparoscopic linear cutter passed transanally. In one patient a colonoscope was used to visualize the stricture, whereas in the second patient a laparoscope (passed transanally) was used. The operating times were 65 and 59 min, respectively. There were no complications, and both patients were discharged the next day. Both patients are asymptomatic after 9 and 7 months of follow-up. A colonoscopy carried out at 6 months has shown patent anastomosis in both patients. Endoscopic transanal rectal stricturoplasty is a safe and effective technique in dealing with benign rectal strictures and can be performed in an outpatient basis.