Esophageal Dilation

Esophageal dilatation is a procedure that allows your physician to stretch, or dilate, your esophagus. Dilation is performed during an upper endoscopy. The esophagus is the muscular tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. In some circumstances, the esophagus may become narrow. This is known as a stricture. This most commonly happens from chronic acid reflux. Acid can burn, and scar, the esophagus, making it more difficult to swallow foods. In this situation, dilation may be needed to open up the narrow area. Your doctor will use specialized tools, such as inflatable balloons, to stretch the esophagus.

Why is esophageal dilation done?

The most common cause of narrowing of the esophagus, or stricture, is scarring of the esophagus from reflux of stomach acid occurring in patients with heartburn. Patients with a narrowed portion of the esophagus often have trouble swallowing; food feels like it is “stuck” in the chest region, causing discomfort or pain. Less common causes of esophageal narrowing are webs or rings (which are thin layers of excess tissue), cancer of the esophagus, scarring after radiation treatment or a disorder of the way the esophagus moves [motility disorder].

What should I expect during the procedure?

Esophageal dilation is performed while you are sedated during an upper endoscopy. Your doctor will examine your esophagus and determine if dilation is needed. He or she will then determine if dilation should be performed with an inflatable balloon or with flexible, plastic dilators. The dilation will take several minutes to perform. After the procedure, you will be brought to our recovery suite. Your doctor will review the findings from the procedure and will provide a written report with photographs.

What should I expect after my procedure?

You may feel bloating or gas distention immediately after your procedure. You may also experience temporary cramping. A slight sore throat is not uncommon. This will typically improve within one day. The sedation that you received will rapidly wear off, but you may be slightly drowsy or groggy after the procedure.

What are the risks of the procedure?

Complications from esophageal dilation are rare, particularly when an experienced physician performs the procedure. However, there is a small change that bleeding or injury to the esophagus may occur. In a very small percentage of procedures, a perforation, or hole, may form in the esophagus. This may require surgery. Symptoms of a perforation include chest pain, fever, trouble breathing, or difficulty swallowing. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.