[Endoscopic Management of Dysphagia]

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Endoscopy

Background:

• Dysphagia is difficulty in swallowing, stemming from oropharyngeal or esophageal disorders.
• Treatment depends on whether dysphagia results from mechanical narrowing or a motor disorder.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline endoscopic treatment strategies for dysphagia.
• To detail specific interventions based on the etiology of swallowing difficulty.

Main Methods:

• Review of endoscopic treatment options for dysphagia.
• Categorization of treatments by underlying cause (mechanical vs. motor, benign vs. malignant).

Main Results:

• Upper esophageal sphincter dysfunction may be treated with dilation or botulinum toxin.
• Esophageal motility disorders can be managed with pneumatic balloon dilation, botulinum toxin, or peroral endoscopic myotomy.
• Esophageal strictures are treated with dilation, while refractory benign strictures may involve steroid injection or stenting. Malignant dysphagia can be addressed with self-expandable metal stents.

Conclusions:

• Endoscopic interventions offer varied and effective management for dysphagia.
• Tailoring treatment to the specific cause of dysphagia is crucial for successful outcomes.