Abstract
Strictures, commonly referred to as stenoses, are a rare but significant complication
for patients who have undergone colorectal surgery. Strictures are difficult to diagnose
due to variable clinical presentations, diverse etiologies, and lack of formalized
diagnostic criteria. The clinical impact of strictures can be quite variable, ranging
from a benign course not requiring intervention to emergent complications (e.g., bowel
obstruction, perforation). Importantly, strictures can also have a large impact on
patient quality of life and long-term bowel function. Once a stricture is diagnosed
or clinically suspected, it is critical to determine its etiology to help guide clinical
management and prevent recurrence. Strictures can be categorized as partial or complete,
intrinsic or extrinsic, benign or malignant. We propose the ARCTIC mnemonic (Anastomosis,
Radiation/Chemotherapy, Technical, Inflammation, and Compression) as a useful tool
for remembering common stricture causes in the postoperative environment. This review
seeks to provide an overview of the etiologies, diagnosis, and management of strictures
in the postoperative setting.
Keywords
stricture - anastomosis - obstruction - complication - stenosis
