The consultant told me before the op that he would be dilating using 2 french (I think that's what he said and gradually increasing to 20. The op lasted about 15 minutes and there was no incision.
Size 16 catheter I was told. It's a Lofric origo and says CH14 4,7mm. I think when it gets to the stricture, it can catch on that. I've found by twists it, it will find the hole easier. I don't get any bleeding and yes, relaxing does help. I leave it in for 15 seconds as instructed
Best regards
Guy