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Ileal Stricture

At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Bharat Pothuri provides trusted, compassionate care for ileal strictures-narrowings of the small intestine causing discomfort. With advanced diagnostics, personalized treatments, and minimally invasive procedures, Dr. Pothuri helps you regain digestive health and quality of life.

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Difficulty Swallowing

American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

About the Expert

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a board-certified gastroenterologist and the founder of GastroDoxs. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

Crohn's disease -chronic inflammation that leads to scar tissue in the ileum
Previous abdominal surgery -healing and adhesions can narrow the bowel
Radiation therapy -damage to the small intestine after cancer treatment
Regular use of NSAIDs -prolonged ibuprofen or aspirin use may injure the gut lining
Infection or injury -can cause swelling, damage, and eventual stricture formation

Signs and Symptoms

Abdominal pain or cramps, often triggered by eating
Bloating and excessive gas
Constipation or erratic bowel habits
Nausea and vomiting
Unexplained weight loss

Expert Treatment for Ileal Stricture by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

Dr. Pothuri uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Physical Exam

He reviews your abdominal pain (including epigastric discomfort), meal-related cramps, weight changes, prior surgeries, Crohn's history, NSAID use and other risk factors.

Blood Tests

We check complete blood count (for anemia), C-reactive protein and ESR (for inflammation), electrolytes and nutritional markers.

Imaging Studies

CT or MR enterography to pinpoint the stricture's location, length and nearby inflammation.
Small-bowel follow-through (barium study) to visualize narrowing and transit delay.
Abdominal ultrasound-sometimes with Doppler-to assess wall thickening and blood flow.

Endoscopic Evaluation

Colonoscopy with ileoscopy or capsule endoscopy allows direct visualization of the ileum, confirms the stricture and evaluates mucosal health.

Biopsy or Histology (if needed)

Targeted biopsy rules out active inflammation versus dense scar tissue and guides therapy choices.

Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for ileal strictures.

1. Diet and Lifestyle Tips

Eat small, frequent meals to ease digestion
Chew food thoroughly to prevent blockages
Avoid tough, high-fiber foods that can worsen narrowing
Stay hydrated to support smooth intestinal flow
Work with our nutrition team for a personalized plan

2. Medications

Aminosalicylates to reduce intestinal inflammation
Steroids for short-term control of acute flare-ups
Biologics or immunosuppressants for Crohn's-related strictures
Pain relievers and anti-nausea agents as needed

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

Balloon dilation to gently stretch narrowed segments
Strictureplasty to open strictures without removing bowel
Laparoscopic surgery for resection of severely damaged areas

Call Us 832-632-4070 Schedule Now Click Here Text Us 832-632-4070

667

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 667 patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ICD-10 code for an ileal stricture?

The ICD-10 code for an intestinal blockage due to stricture is K56.5.

Can Crohn's disease cause strictures?

Yes. Chronic inflammation from Crohn's often leads to thickened bowel walls and scar tissue, resulting in strictures.

How long does it take to recover from balloon dilation?

Most patients feel relief within 1 to 2 days after the procedure, with gradual improvement in symptoms.

Can you avoid surgery for an ileal stricture?

Yes. Many strictures respond well to a combination of medications, dietary adjustments, and balloon dilation.

When is surgery necessary?

Surgery is considered if blockages recur frequently or if symptoms do not improve with non-surgical treatments.

How should I prepare for diagnostic testing?

Follow all fasting instructions provided by our team and bring a complete list of your current medications.

Will changing my diet fix an ileal stricture?

A soft, low-fiber diet can ease symptoms, but it typically cannot reverse the narrowing itself. Comprehensive treatment is usually needed.

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