Role of strictureplasty in the management of tuberculous strictures of small intestine

ABSTRACT

To evaluate the outcome and assess the reliability of strictureplasty in the management of small intestinal strictures due to tuberculosis. A retrospective observational and descriptive study. PNS-Shifa, Karachi. Clinical data of cases of intestinal tuberculosis reporting over a period of five years-[Aug 1999-to-Aug 2004] was studied. Thirty patients with small intestinal tuberculosis who underwent strictureplasty alone or in combination with limited resection were selected for the study. In 20 cases [66.67%] the strictureplasty was performed in combination with limited resection. Remaining 10 cases [33.33%] were managed by strictureplasty alone. Anastomotic leakage with fistula formation occurred in 3 cases [10%], Burst abdomen occurred in 2 cases [6.67%]. Sub-diaphragmatic abscess formation occurred in 3 cases [10%]. On prolonged follow-up averaging two years, re-admission was required in 5 cases [16.67%]. Re exploration to relieve obstruction due to adhesions was required in 2 cases [6.67%]. Late incisional hernia was seen in 4 cases [13.33%]. There was no procedure related mortality. Strictureplasty is a simple, quick, and safe operative technique to manage tuberculous small intestinal strictures, in combination with limited resection or as a sole procedure