Graded pneumatic dilation using Rigiflex achalasia dilators in patients with primary esophageal achalasia

Pneumatic dilation is the initial therapy for primary esophageal achalasia. Recently, polyethylene balloon (Rigiflex) dilators have been used with varying success and complication rate. We performed a total of 47 dilations in 29 consecutive patients with achalasia using the Rigiflex dilators. The 3.0-cm balloon was always used first. If there was no symptomatic response, a 3.5-cm balloon was used after 4-8 wk. If there was still no symptomatic response after 4-8 wk, a 4.0-cm dilator was used. Eighteen (62%) patients were successfully dilated with a 3.0-cm balloon only. Of 11 patients not responding to a 3.0-cm balloon, five were dilated successfully with a 3.5-cm balloon. Of six patients not responding to a 3.5-cm balloon, four were successfully dilated with a 4.0-cm balloon dilator. Two patients eventually required surgery. The overall success with Rigiflex balloon dilator was achieved in 27 of 29 (93%) patients. There were no complications. We conclude that pneumatic dilation for esophageal achalasia performed in a graded fashion starting with Rigiflex 3.0-cm balloon dilator has a high success rate without complications in patients with achalasia.