Esophageal Dilation
Will my child have pain after the procedure?
Will my child be able to eat normally after the procedure?
What is esophageal dilation?
The esophagus is the long, narrow food tube that carries food and liquid from the mouth to the stomach. It can become blocked or injured. There can be several causes of blockage or stricture of the esophagus. They all can make swallowing food and/or fluids difficult. Your primary physician is responsible for finding what is causing this. Esophageal dilation is the technique used to stretch or open the blocked portion of the esophagus.
How is esophageal dilation done?
Under x-ray guidance, a flexible wire is placed in the mouth and down into the esophagus past the narrowed area. Inflatable balloons are placed over the wire and across the stricture. When inflated, they become sausage shaped, stretch, and break the stricture.
Will my child be awake for the procedure?
No. All children who have esophageal dilation are given general anesthesia for the procedure
What are the risks of esophageal dilation?
- Esophageal perforation
- Bleeding at the treatment site
Will my child have pain after the procedure?
Some children feel pain or discomfort, usually for the first 24-48 hours after the procedure. If this happens your child can be given pain medication.
Will my child be able to eat normally after the procedure?
- Your child should have nothing to eat or drink for 4 hours after the procedure.
- Patients should start with clear liquids and advance to a soft diet as tolerated. Patients should stay on a soft diet for at least 24 hours.
- Food should be lukewarm only, NOT hot.
- No sharp foods for at least 24 hours, i.e: cookies, chips, crackers
- After 24 hours, advance diet to regular as tolerated.
Appointments
- 215-590-7000
