Day theatre procedure
About this service
Anal stricture dilation is a day procedure that gently stretches a narrowed anal canal to relieve pain and difficulty passing stool, and it is offered in Windhoek at Eastgate Clinic. An anal stricture can develop after surgery, injury, chronic fissures, or inflammatory conditions, and it often makes bowel movements painful or difficult. Dilation widens the narrowed area to ease symptoms and make passing stool more comfortable.
The procedure takes place in our on-site day theatre, usually under general or regional anaesthesia. Your doctor will assess the degree of narrowing and discuss whether dilation, or another treatment, is the best approach.
What to expect
- An examination to assess the location and severity of the stricture
- General or regional anaesthesia is typically used for comfort
- The narrowed canal is gently stretched with graded dilators until stool can pass more easily
- Mild discomfort and some spotting can occur for a short time afterwards
- Your doctor will advise on diet, stool softeners, and follow-up dilation if needed
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- Painful or difficult bowel movements that are getting worse
- A narrowing sensation or straining when passing stool
- A history of anal surgery, fissures, or inflammatory bowel disease
- Thin, pencil-like stools
- Ongoing anal discomfort not explained by other causes
Frequently asked questions
What causes an anal stricture?
Scarring after haemorrhoid or fissure surgery is the most common cause. Long-standing fissures, inflammatory bowel disease, injury or radiotherapy can also narrow the canal. Your doctor will examine you to find the cause before treating it.
Will I need more than one anal stricture dilation?
Sometimes. Scar tissue can tighten again, so a repeat dilation is occasionally needed, and your doctor may teach you to use a dilator at home for a period. Keeping stools soft helps the result last.
Is anal stricture dilation done under anaesthesia?
Yes. Stretching a tight scar is uncomfortable, so it is done in our on-site day theatre under general or regional anaesthesia. You go home the same day, usually with stool softeners.
For referring doctors
Eastgate Clinic's day theatre in Windhoek can accommodate anal stricture dilation, with anaesthetist and theatre staff provided on site. Contact us to arrange theatre time for your patient.
Day theatre information for doctorsReady to book your anal stricture dilation?
Choose a date and time online and we will confirm your appointment at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek. Medical aid and private patients welcome.