Balloon Dilation for Stricture Management in Mumbai, India
When a section of the digestive tract becomes abnormally narrow, it can interfere with the smooth passage of food or fluids, leading to pain, difficulty in swallowing, and digestive discomfort. This condition, known as a stricture, may develop in various parts of the gastrointestinal tract — including the esophagus, small intestine, colon, or bile duct.
In such cases, balloon dilation for stricture management provides a minimally invasive and highly effective way to restore normal passage without the need for open surgery. The procedure gently expands the narrowed area using a controlled, image-guided technique.
Dr. Vipulroy Rathod, a leading gastroenterologist and an expert in balloon dilation for stricture management in Mumbai, India, has extensive experience in performing advanced endoscopic procedures that help patients regain normal function and comfort with precision-based care.
“A stricture alters the normal flow within the digestive tract, often causing significant discomfort and nutritional difficulties. Balloon dilation helps by carefully widening the affected segment under endoscopic guidance, improving both function and quality of life,” explains Dr. Vipulroy Rathod.
Dr. Vipulroy D. Rathod, a globally acclaimed gastroenterology specialist, states, “Colonoscopy is a gold-standard diagnostic and preventive tool that helps detect these problems early, often before symptoms escalate.” He continues, “Not just for symptomatic patients. It is a valuable screening tool for anyone over the age of 45 or with a history of GI disease in their family.”
For patients seeking reliable, expert-led care, Dr. Vipulroy D. Rathod offers safe and advanced colonoscopy in Mumbai, India. With over three decades of experience and more than 80,000 endoscopic procedures performed, he is widely regarded as a leader in gastrointestinal diagnostics.
Let’s understand what causes strictures and why they need timely management.
Dr. Vipulroy Rathod Explains Stricture Formation and Its Impact on the Digestive Tract
According to Dr. Rathod, a stricture is essentially a scarred or inflamed segment of the gastrointestinal tract that becomes too narrow for food or fluids to pass smoothly.
He explains, “When chronic inflammation or injury occurs in the digestive tract, the body tries to heal the affected area. In this process, scar tissue forms. This tissue is tougher and less flexible than normal lining—causing a constriction known as a stricture.”
Common causes include:
Long-term acid reflux (leading to esophageal strictures) Chronic inflammatory diseases like Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis Prior abdominal or biliary surgery Radiation therapy Infections or trauma He explains, “When chronic inflammation or injury occurs in the digestive tract, the body tries to heal the affected area. In this process, scar tissue forms. This tissue is tougher and less flexible than normal lining—causing a constriction known as a stricture.”
Strictures can occur in several regions:
Esophagus
Causing difficulty in swallowing and chest discomfort
Small intestine or colon
Most colon and rectal cancers that are early-stage are asymptomatic. Colonoscopy is the most accurate instrument for early detection and biopsy.
Bile duct
Resulting in jaundice or infection
Without timely management, strictures can worsen, causing obstruction and affecting nutrition and quality of life.
Advanced Endoscopic Balloon Dilation Techniques by Dr. Vipulroy D. Rathod
Balloon dilation is performed through an endoscope, a flexible instrument that allows visualization inside the digestive tract. A specialized balloon catheter is passed through the endoscope and positioned at the stricture site.
Dr. Vipulroy Rathod uses different techniques depending on the type, length, and severity of the stricture:
1. Through-the-Scope (TTS) Balloon Dilation:
The most common technique. The balloon is introduced through the endoscope channel and inflated directly under vision. It allows precise control of the expansion pressure and duration.
2. Wire-Guided Balloon Dilation:
Used when the stricture is very tight or tortuous. A guidewire is first placed across the narrowing to ensure safe navigation, followed by balloon placement and inflation.
3. Fluoroscopic-Guided Dilation:
Combines endoscopic and X-ray guidance to visualize the stricture from multiple angles. Ideal for complex or deep-seated strictures such as those in the bile duct or post-surgical areas.
4. Sequential (Graded) Dilation:
Multiple balloons of increasing diameters are used in stages to achieve gradual expansion without injuring the tissue.
These methods are chosen based on anatomy, safety, and clinical need. The goal is always to restore normal passage while minimizing trauma and recurrence.
Step-by-Step Overview of the Balloon Dilation Procedure
1. Pre-Procedure Evaluation
A thorough consultation helps identify the cause and location of the stricture. Investigations such as endoscopy, CT scan, or MRI are used for detailed mapping.
2. Preparation
The patient is advised to fast for a few hours before the procedure. Sedation or anesthesia ensures comfort throughout.
3. Dilation Process
The endoscope is advanced to the stricture site. The balloon catheter is then placed and gently inflated using controlled pressure. This widens the narrowed area gradually, improving the passage.
4. Post-Procedure Observation
After dilation, the patient is monitored for a few hours. Most cases are completed as day-care procedures. Mild soreness or bloating may occur temporarily.
5. Recovery and Follow-Up
Patients can usually resume normal activities within a day. Follow-up endoscopy may be scheduled to confirm that the tract remains open and symptoms have resolved.
Here’s why his expertise makes a difference in complex stricture care.
Why Choose Dr. Vipulroy Rathod for Balloon Dilation for Stricture Management in Mumbai, India
Here’s why Dr. Vipulroy Rathod is one of the most sought-after colonoscopy specialists in Mumbai, India:
Extensive experience in endoscopic interventions
Dr. Vipulroy Rathod, a distinguished endoscopist and gastroenterologist in Mumbai, has performed over 80,000 endoscopic procedures with a consistent record of safety, accuracy, and precision.
Comprehensive understanding of complex strictures
Expertise in managing strictures arising from reflux, Crohn’s disease, post-surgical scarring, and bile duct injury—ensuring individualized treatment for every case.
Use of high-definition endoscopic systems
State-of-the-art visualization enables precise balloon placement and controlled dilation, improving success rates and procedural safety.
Patient-centered clinical decisions
Each intervention is carefully planned based on the stricture’s location, length, and underlying cause, ensuring the most suitable therapeutic approach.
Painless and Patient-Friendly Techniques
Performs colonoscopies under safe sedation protocols, minimizing discomfort while prioritizing patient dignity and ease.
Minimally invasive, quick recovery
Most balloon dilation procedures are completed as day-care treatments, allowing patients to experience rapid symptom relief and minimal recovery time.
Focus on recurrence prevention
Structured follow-up protocols and long-term monitoring help sustain results, reduce recurrence, and maintain healthy digestive function.
How do you prepare for your colonoscopy? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you feel confident and ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s an endoscopic procedure where a balloon is inserted into a narrowed area and inflated to widen the passage, improving flow and relieving obstruction.
Usually between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the site and complexity of the stricture.
No. The procedure is performed under sedation or anesthesia, ensuring complete comfort.
Most patients can eat soft foods and return to normal routines within 24 hours.
Complications are rare. Minor bleeding or temporary discomfort can occur but are usually self-limiting.
Some conditions, especially chronic inflammatory ones, may need repeat dilation. Regular follow-ups reduce this risk.