A new simple endoscopic incision therapy for refractory benign oesophageal anastomotic stricture

Oesophageal anastomotic stricture is a frequent complication after esophagectomy. In most cases, endoscopic bougination or balloon dilation usually resolves anastomotic stricture. However, some refractory oesophageal strictures remain difficult to treat and cause significant morbidity. Recently, successful treatment using endoscopic incisional therapy has been reported in several cases. We report a case of refractory benign oesophageal anastomotic stricture after oesophagectomy. A 72-year-old man underwent three consecutive bouginations. However, he developed progressive stricture. Stricture was successfully treated with an endoscopic knife incision. We performed only three incisions without a cutting method, which was new compared with previous reports. A new simple endoscopic incision technique is effective and safe for stricture management. In conclusion, endoscopic incisional therapy may be recommended as a salvage treatment for properly selected patients with refractory benign stricture who do not respond to conventional therapy.