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Ileal Stricture
An ileal stricture, a narrowing of the small intestine's final segment, often occurs in Crohn's disease, causing pain and blockages. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott offers advanced diagnostics, tailored medical therapies and minimally invasive treatments for effective symptom relief.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
What Is an Ileal Stricture?
An ileal stricture is a narrowing of the terminal portion of the small intestine (the ileum). This constriction can impede or slow the passage of digested food and may lead to partial or complete obstruction.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Crohn's disease involvement of the ileum
Chronic inflammation of the small bowel
Scar tissue formation from prior surgeries or injuries
Smoking, which exacerbates gut inflammation
Family history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Signs and Symptoms
Belly pain or cramps, often after eating
Bloating or a sensation of fullness in the lower right abdomen
Nausea or vomiting
Poor appetite and unintended weight loss
Altered bowel habits: diarrhea or constipation
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He reviews your symptoms-especially epigastric pain, meal-related cramps, bloating-and your personal and family history of IBD.
Blood Tests
We check inflammation markers (CRP, ESR), complete blood count and nutritional panels to assess disease activity and rule out other causes.
Imaging Studies
CT scan or MRI enterography to identify narrowings, wall thickening and active inflammation in the ileum.
Abdominal ultrasound may be used for real-time assessment of bowel wall changes.
Endoscopic Evaluation
Capsule endoscopy for a detailed view of the small intestine lining beyond reach of standard scopes.
Balloon-assisted enteroscopy or ileocolonoscopy for direct inspection and possible biopsy.
Coding and Documentation
All findings are catalogued under ICD-10 code K50.012 (Crohn's disease of small intestine with obstruction) for precise treatment planning and insurance documentation.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for ileal strictures.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Tips
Eat small meals more often
Try a low-fiber or low-residue diet during flare-ups
Drink plenty of water
Use supplements if you're not getting enough nutrients
2. Medications
Anti-inflammatory drugs like mesalamine
Immunosuppressants such as azathioprine or methotrexate
Biologics like infliximab or adalimumab
Pain relievers, prescribed with care
3. Minimally Invasive or Surgical Options
Balloon dilation: A nonsurgical way to stretch the stricture
Strictureplasty or resection: Used if dilation doesn't help
Full support from a team of GI nurses, dietitians, and imaging experts
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ICD-10 code for an ileal stricture?
The ICD-10 code for an ileal stricture with obstruction due to Crohn's disease is K50.012, which helps us document and plan your treatment accurately.
Can diet fix a stricture?
Diet changes-like small, low-fiber or low-residue meals-can ease symptoms but usually can't resolve the narrowing by themselves.
Is balloon dilation safe?
Yes. Balloon dilation is a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure performed by experienced GI specialists to gently stretch the stricture and improve intestinal flow.
How soon will I feel better?
Most patients notice relief within a few days of starting medication or after balloon dilation, with reduced pain and bloating.
Will I need surgery?
Not always. Many patients do well with medications and dilation. If strictures persist, surgical options like strictureplasty or resection may be recommended.
Do you treat children with ileal strictures?
Yes. Dr. Scott partners with pediatric GI specialists to tailor care plans for young patients with ileal strictures.
How should I prepare for dilation?
You will follow a clear liquid diet and fasting instructions before the procedure. Our team will provide all the details to ensure you're fully prepared.
