Esophageal dilatation

Esophageal dilatation is a medical procedure aimed at widening a narrowed section of the esophagus, which is the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. This condition, known as an esophageal stricture, can cause difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia), pain, and other serious complications. Esophageal dilatation is often performed to improve symptoms and quality of life for patients with this condition.

Causes of Esophageal Stricture

Esophageal strictures can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Long-term exposure to stomach acid, often due to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Radiation therapy to the chest area
• Ingestion of corrosive substances, such as lye
• Surgical procedures on the esophagus
• Certain medications that can cause damage if they remain in contact with the esophagus for too long
• Esophageal cancer

Symptoms

Symptoms of an esophageal stricture include:

• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Pain while swallowing
• Unintended weight loss
• Regurgitation of food or liquids

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of an esophageal stricture typically involves:

• A detailed medical history and physical examination
• Barium swallow X-ray
• Endoscopy, which allows direct visualization of the esophagus and potential biopsy

Procedure

Esophageal dilatation can be performed using various techniques, depending on the severity and cause of the stricture. The most common methods include:

• Balloon dilatation: A balloon is inserted into the narrowed area and then inflated to widen the esophagus.
• Bougie dilatation: A series of increasingly larger dilators are passed through the stricture to gradually widen it.

The procedure is usually performed under sedation or general anesthesia. Patients may experience mild discomfort, sore throat, or chest pain afterward, but these symptoms typically resolve within a few days.

Risks and Complications

While esophageal dilatation is generally safe, there are potential risks and complications, including:

• Perforation of the esophagus
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Need for repeat procedures

Aftercare

After the procedure, patients are usually advised to:

• Follow a soft or liquid diet for a short period
• Avoid certain medications that can irritate the esophagus
• Continue treatment for underlying conditions, such as GERD

Prognosis

The prognosis for patients undergoing esophageal dilatation is generally good, with many experiencing significant improvement in symptoms. However, some patients may require repeat procedures, especially if the underlying cause of the stricture is not addressed.