A new endoscopic solution for rectal anastomotic atresia: Contrast agent-guided precision dilation

A 73-year-old man was admitted to our hospital due to rectal anastomosis atresia following prior treatments involving total colectomy, ileostomy establishment, and ileorectal end-to-side anastomosis for intestinal obstruction and ischemic necrosis approximately 4 months previously. Colonoscopy revealed occluded anastomosis 18 cm distal from the anus, characterized by the presence of white scarring and a prominent aggregation of mucosal folds at its central juncture ([Fig. 1]). To precisely locate the proximal intestinal lumen, an injection needle (VedNeedle, 22G diameter; Vedkang Medical, Jiangsu, China) was used to penetrate the occlusion. After injecting the contrast medium, X-ray fluoroscopy revealed the appropriate localization of the contrast medium within the distal intestinal lumen ([Fig. 2]). Guided by a guidewire (Jagwire, 0.035-diameter; Boston Scientific, Marlborough, Massachusetts, USA) through the incision knife, the anastomosis was then opened by a small incision in the occlusion, resulting in a controlled incision ([Fig. 3]). An 8.0-mm biliary dilation balloon further opened the anastomosis successfully ([Fig. 4]). After 2 weeks, a follow-up colonoscopy revealed anastomotic stenosis, which hindered the passage of an Olympus GIF Q260J scope (Olympus, Tokyo, Japan). To address this, a dilation balloon with a guidewire was introduced through the stenosis, and a 12-mm balloon was inflated, effectively expanding the anastomosis ([Fig. 5]). The endoscope passed easily through the anastomosis ([Video 1]). One month later, the patient made a positive recovery, leading to the successful ileostomy reversal procedure.