Intractable dysphagia following placement of Angelchik prosthesis for reflux esophagitis

In 1979, Angelchik and Cohen [1] reported a series of 46 patients in whom a Silastic prosthesis was used to control gastroesophageal reflux. The initial results were good, and to date, no long-term complications have been noted. We discuss a patient whom severe dysphagia developed following placement of an Angelchik prosthesis. Preoperative evaluation revealed no motor abnormality and no stricture, but there was acute angulation of the gastroesophageal junction. The prosthesis was removed through a left thoracotomy, and a Belsey repair resulted in good relief of symptoms.