[Endoscopic diagnosis and treatment of cicatricial esophageal strictures]

The paper summarizes the experience gained by the authors in 10-year treatment of esophageal cicatricial strictures. Work-up and treatment results available on 107 relevant patients provided evidence on the leading role of endoscopic diagnosis in cicatricial strictures, while endoscopic bouginage is effective treatment of the strictures. To prevent recurrences esophageal bouginage should be combined with drug and laser therapy. The immediate response was reached in 91 (85%) patients. Long-term response was good only in 34 (46.6%) patients. Six slight complications passed off without special treatment.