Balloon dilatation of oesophageal strictures in children

K Sandgren1, G Malmfors

  • 1Department of Paediatric Surgery, University Hospital, Lund, Sweden.

Insights

Balloon dilatation is an effective treatment for pediatric esophageal strictures, achieving a 79% success rate. This minimally invasive approach offers radial force application and fluoroscopic control for improved outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Interventional Endoscopy
  • Esophageal Diseases

Background:

  • Esophageal strictures in children can result from various congenital and acquired conditions.
  • Balloon dilatation has emerged as a frequent therapeutic option for esophageal strictures.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of balloon dilatation for treating esophageal strictures in pediatric patients.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective analysis of 36 children treated with balloon catheterization between 1983 and 1994.
  • Dilatation was performed on 39 strictures (including 3 double strictures) a total of 171 times.
  • Patients included those with esophageal atresia, tracheo-esophageal fistula, congenital stenosis, and acquired strictures.

Main Results:

  • Balloon dilatation was successful in 31 out of 36 children (79% success rate).
  • Alternative treatments were required for 8 children (22%), including conventional bouginage (2) and surgical resection (6).
  • The procedure was performed on patients aged two weeks to 15 years.

Conclusions:

  • Balloon dilatation is a successful and viable treatment for pediatric esophageal strictures.
  • The method's advantages include radial force application and enhanced control via fluoroscopy.
  • Further research can explore long-term outcomes and comparisons with other treatment modalities.

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