Approach to Endoscopic Balloon Dilatation in Pediatric Stricturing Crohn's Disease: a position paper of the Endoscopy Special Interest Group of ESPGHAN

: Crohn's disease (CD) is often complicated by bowel strictures that can lead to obstructive symptoms, resistant inflammation and penetrating complications. Endoscopic balloon dilatation (EBD) of CD strictures has emerged as a safe and effective technique for relieving these strictures which may obviate the need for surgical intervention in the short and medium term. This technique appears to be underutilized in pediatric CD. This position paper of the Endoscopy Special Interest Group of ESPGHAN describes the potential applications, appropriate evaluation, practical technique and management of complications of this important procedure. The aim being to better integrate this therapeutic strategy in pediatric CD management.