Out-patient esophageal dilation: an experience in 130 patients using Savary-Gilliard dilators

Experience of outpatient esophageal dilation using Savary-Gilliard dilators in 130 patients during a 17 month period is reported. The strictures were radiation induced (48), tumoral stenoses (40), anastomotic (16) and due to other causes (26). Both fluoroscopy and endoscopy were used in 58%, endoscopy alone in 23% and fluoroscopy alone in 19% of patients for placement of the guide wire. One hundred and twenty six stricture dilations (97%) were technically successful. Eighty one (62%) patients could be dilated to 14 mm or more. One hundred and nineteen (94%) patients were dilated in one or two sessions. Among the 109 patients who followed up, dilation was successful in providing adequate dysphagia relief in 97 patients and facilitated the performance of other therapies in 9 patients. Major complications included severe continuous chest pain (1 case), hematemesis (2), fever (4) and transient stridor (2). The patient with persistent pain and 9 patients undergoing other therapies required hospitalization. There were no perforations or death. We conclude that esophageal dilation with Savary-Gilliard dilators is safe and effective even in tumors and post-radiation strictures. It can be performed on an outpatient basis in a majority of patients.