Endoscopic management of ileal pouch–anal anastomosis strictures: meta-analysis and systematic literature review

Abstract

Background Restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch–anal anastomosis (IPAA) is a common surgical procedure for ulcerative colitis and familial adenomatous polyposis. IPAA strictures are a known complication, often requiring surgical intervention. Endoscopic interventions offer a less invasive alternative, but their safety and efficacy remain uncertain.

Methods A comprehensive literature search was performed to identify pertinent studies. Outcomes assessed were technical success, clinical success (immediate and end of follow up), pouch failure rate and adverse events. Pooled estimates were calculated using random effects models with a 95% confidence interval.

Results A total of 607 patients from 9 studies were included. Technical success, defined as the ability to pass the endoscope through the stricture, was achieved in 97.4% of patients. Immediate clinical success, defined as symptom improvement post-intervention, was seen in 44.5% of patients. Clinical success at the end of follow up was observed in 81.7% of patients. However, 6.8% of patients experienced pouch failure and ultimately 14.5% required surgical intervention for refractory strictures or complications. Endoscopic intervention-related serious adverse events occurred in 3.9% of patients, including perforation and major post-procedural bleeding.

Conclusions Endoscopic interventions for IPAA strictures demonstrate high technical success rates, providing a less invasive option for managing this complication. While clinical success rates immediately post-procedure and at end of follow up are promising, a significant proportion of patients ultimately require surgical intervention for pouch failure or refractory strictures.

Keywords Ileal pouch–anal anastomosis, endoscopic balloon dilation, stricturotomy

Ann Gastroenterol 2025; 38 (1): 60-67