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Endoscopic balloon dilatation of esophageal strictures in children

J Alshammari1, S Quesnel, S Pierrot

  • 1Pediatric ENT Department, Service d'ORL Pédiatrique, Hôpital Necker - Enfants Malades, AP-HP, University of Paris V, 149, rue de Sèvres, 75015 Paris, France.

International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology
|September 6, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Endoscopic balloon dilatation is a safe and effective treatment for pediatric esophageal strictures, achieving an 86% success rate. This minimally invasive approach offers a viable solution for children experiencing swallowing difficulties.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Minimally Invasive Surgery
  • Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

Background:

  • Esophageal strictures in children can lead to significant morbidity, including dysphagia and failure to thrive.
  • Conventional treatments may be invasive or less effective for certain etiologies.
  • Endoscopic balloon dilatation offers a less invasive therapeutic option.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy and safety of endoscopic balloon dilatation for treating esophageal strictures in pediatric patients.
  • To identify factors influencing treatment success and complications.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective case series was conducted on 49 pediatric patients (<18 years) with esophageal strictures.
  • Treatment involved endoscopic balloon dilatation, with outcomes assessed via residual dysphagia, weight gain, and esophageal lumen evaluation.
  • Follow-up ranged from 20 to 109 months, with a median of 2 dilatations per patient.

Main Results:

  • The primary causes of strictures were esophageal atresia (49%), corrosive injury (25%), and epidermolysis bullosa (14%).
  • Successful treatment was achieved in 86% of patients, with 12% requiring surgery for residual stenosis.
  • Three iatrogenic esophageal perforations (6% of patients) occurred, all managed conservatively.

Conclusions:

  • Endoscopic balloon dilatation is a safe, simple, and effective treatment for pediatric esophageal strictures.
  • While generally successful, outcomes may be less favorable for corrosive strictures.
  • The procedure demonstrates a favorable safety profile with manageable complications.
Abstract

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