[Dilatation of malignant esophageal stenoses using a balloon catheter]

The paper summarizes the experience with the dilatation of malignant oesophageal stenosis by a balloon catheter. In a patient after gastrectomy with a relapse of the tumorous process the author performed 10 dilatation interventions by a balloon 22 mm wide. After a short interval of renewed normal passage, marked swallowing difficulties always rapidly returned. The patient died 24 hours after a subsequent surgical revision and an attempt to remove the tumour.