Rectal stricture is a condition where the rectal or anal opening is narrowed due to the presence of scar tissue from inflammation, a previous injury, or an aggressive cancer growth.
Skip to main content
Patient with rectal stricture complain of difficulty in passing stools, straining at stool & occasionally blood in stool. Sometimes the caliber & consistency of the stool changes. Some may develop bloating & inability to pass stools if the disease is advanced.
Following are some of the causes of rectal stricture:
The diagnosis of a rectal stricture is based on history, physical examination, and, occasionally, imaging findings. The degree of a stenosis is best imaged with a water-soluble contrast enema. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, with or without rectal contrast enhancement, can be helpful in assessing other segments of the alimentary tract or the peritoneal cavity for conditions such as IBD and cancer.
Where to get help
Hard stools that are difficult to pass, thin stools, or straining that keeps getting worse should be checked. The cause of a narrowing is found with an examination and tests before treatment is planned. Many benign narrowings are stretched open; surgery is needed only for some.
Dr Harsh Shah, MS, MCh (Surgical Gastroenterology), DrNB (Surgical Gastroenterology), is a surgical gastroenterologist. He sees stomach, bowel, liver and pancreas problems at his Gota OPD, and operates at Apollo Hospital, Bhat, Gandhinagar when surgery is needed.
Read more: gastro surgeon in Ahmedabad
Related: Rectal prolapse surgery · Diverticulitis · Crohn’s disease · Ulcerative colitis
OPD: Shah’s Gastro, Cancer & Robotic Surgery Centre, SF-203, 2nd floor, Olive Greens, Gota, S G Highway, Ahmedabad 382481. Call to book. Bring your old reports; second opinions are welcome.
Last updated: 4 October 2026
A narrowing of the rectum that keeps coming back may need an operation. Read colorectal surgeon in Ahmedabad: what is treated and when to see one.
Swasth Parivar: twice a month, practical advice on recovery, diet and warning signs. No advertising. Stop any time.
Your number is used for these updates and for the clinic to reach you. It is never sold or passed on. To stop, reply STOP on WhatsApp.