Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 19, 2026

Robotic Myotomy and Partial Fundoplication for Achalasia
Published on: August 11, 2023
Severe dysphagia due to a huge epiphrenic diverticulum: long-term treatment with balloon dilation and botulinum toxin
Panagiotis Katsinelos1, Grigoris Chatzimavroudis, Kostas Fasoulas
1Department of Endoscopy and Motility Unit, "G. Gennimatas" General Hospital of Thessaloniki Ethnikis Aminis 41, Thessaloniki Greece.
Abstract:
We herein describe the first case of a high elderly patient with severe dysphagia in solids and liquids, caused by a huge epiphrenic diverticulum, who was treated with combined therapy of balloon dilation and botulinum toxin injection. Due to comorbid associated diseases the patient was unsuitable to withstand surgical or laparoscopic intervention. Treatment with botulinum toxin injection at the region of lower esophageal sphincter was unsuccessful. Combined therapy with balloon dilatation and botulinum toxin injection at the compressed part of esophageal lumen by the diverticulum resulted in improvement in dysphagia and malnutrition. During the long-term follow-up the patient developed symptomatic relapses, successfully treated by subsequent combined therapy resulting in longer-lasting symptom relief.
Related Concept Videos
Esophageal Strictures-II: Clinical Features and Management
Healthcare providers should gather a comprehensive medical history and conduct a physical examination for diagnosis. If esophageal stricture is...
Esophageal Achalasia
Pyloric Obstruction
Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Clinical Manifestations:
Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol abuse, or...
Esophageal Strictures-I: Introduction
Etiology
The primary cause of esophageal strictures is long-standing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), accounting for about 70 to 80% of adult cases. Chronic acid reflux can lead to injury and scarring of the esophageal lining, culminating in...