Fluoroscopically guided large balloon dilatation for treating congenital esophageal stenosis in children

Hong-Tao Hu1, Ji Hoon Shin, Jin-Hyoung Kim

  • 1Department of Radiology, Henan Cancer Hospital/The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 127 Dongming Road, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China.

Insights

Fluoroscopically guided large balloon dilatation is a safe and effective primary treatment for congenital esophageal stenosis in children. While esophageal ruptures can occur, they are manageable and not fatal.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Interventional Endoscopy
  • Congenital Anomalies

Background:

  • Congenital esophageal stenosis presents a significant challenge in pediatric care.
  • Effective and minimally invasive treatment options are crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the safety and clinical effectiveness of fluoroscopically guided large balloon dilatation for treating congenital esophageal stenosis in pediatric patients.
  • To evaluate technical success, clinical success, recurrence rates, and complications associated with this procedure.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective evaluation of seven children (mean age 4.0 years) undergoing ten balloon dilatation sessions.
  • Initial balloon diameters ranged from 10-15 mm.
  • Assessment included technical and clinical success, dysphagia recurrence, and complications.

Main Results:

  • 100% technical and clinical success rates were achieved.
  • During a mean 38-month follow-up, 43% of patients required an additional dilatation for recurrence, with most showing improvement.
  • Two patients (29%) experienced type 2 esophageal rupture, successfully managed conservatively.

Conclusions:

  • Fluoroscopically guided large balloon dilatation is a simple, effective primary treatment for pediatric congenital esophageal stenosis.
  • Esophageal rupture is a potential complication but is generally not fatal and can be managed conservatively.
Abstract

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