Esophageal Dilation
Esophageal dilation is a procedure that widens the esophagus, the tube that carries food from your throat to your stomach, when it has become too narrow. This narrowing, known as a stricture or stenosis, can cause difficulty swallowing. Dilation involves using a dilator (usually a balloon or bougie) to gently stretch the narrowed area.
Esophageal Strictures:
- These can be caused by various factors, including acid reflux (GERD), injury, inflammation, or certain medical conditions.
Achalasia:
- A disorder where the lower esophageal sphincter doesn't relax properly, leading to difficulty swallowing
Other Conditions:
- Conditions like eosinophilic esophagitis, certain types of cancer, or radiation-induced damage can also cause esophageal narrowing.
How the Procedure is Performed:
- Preparation: The patient may be given sedation or a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort.
- Dilation: A flexible tube with a dilating device (balloon or bougie) is guided down the esophagus to the narrowed area.
- Guidewire: A flexible wire is often used to guide the dilating device.
- Dilation: The dilating device is inflated or moved to gently stretch the esophagus.
- Gradual Widening: The procedure is typically done in stages, with the dilator gradually increasing in size until the desired level of dilation is achieved.
- Fluoroscopy: X-ray imaging (fluoroscopy) may be used to guide the procedure, allowing the doctor to see the esophagus and the position of the dilator.
Benefits of Esophageal Dilation:
- Relief of Symptoms: Dilation can significantly improve symptoms of dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), food impaction, and other esophageal issues.
- Improved Swallowing: By widening the esophagus, it becomes easier for food and liquid to pass through.
Potential Risks:
- Esophageal Perforation: While rare, there is a risk of puncturing the esophagus during dilation.
- Bleeding: Bleeding at the site of the dilation may occur, but is usually minor.
- Other Complications: Chest pain, sore throat, or temporary swelling can also occur.
Post-Procedure Care:
- Rest: Patients are typically advised to rest after the procedure.
- Hydration:Patients can typically resume drinking after the throat anesthetic wears off.
- Diet: The doctor will provide instructions on when and how to resume eating.
- Monitoring: Patients may be monitored for a period after the procedure, especially if sedation was used.