[Bouginage in chemical burns of the esophagus in children].

851 children suspected to have chemical burn of the esophagus were treated from 1996 to 2000. Use of esophageal bouginage along the guiding string has changed medical policy for esophageal burns. We completely rejected early bouginage. Late bouginage was necessary for 22% patients with II-III degree of chemical burns (3.8% of all hospitalized children). Results of the new policy depended on chemical agent. The best results were achieved after acetic acid burns. It is difficult to treat alkali burns leading to prolonged esophageal stenosis, and manganese crystal burns leading to pharynx injuries.