[Endoscopic control of balloon dilatation of the pylorus]

After resection of a cardia carcinoma a gastric obstruction was observed. Because of a severe esophagitis the planned operation could not be performed. In the following a method of palliative treatment of pyloric dysfunction is described. Under fluoroscopic control a stiff balloon catheter was introduced into the stomach. Under endoscopic control a guide wire fitting the central lumen of the balloon catheter was passed into the pylorus by use of a biopsy forceps. Under endoscopic and fluoroscopic control the guide wire was positioned in the duodenum. Than the balloon catheter was passed through the pylorus both, under endoscopic and fluoroscopic control and inflated. No complication was observed. After dilatation of pylorus the patient was able to take food as usual. In the following weeks the esophagitis was treated and the pyloroplasty was performed successfully.