Endoscopy-guided balloon dilatation of oesophageal strictures in children.

The aim of the study is to evaluate the indications, safety, and efficacy of endoscopy guided balloon dilatation (EGBD) in the treatment of strictures of the oesophagus in children. Between 1998 and 2002, 12 infants and children with oesophageal strictures were treated with EGBD in our institute. Median age was 4.1 years (range, 2 months-11 years). Of 12 patients, four had oesophageal strictures, following repair of oesophageal atresia; six had short-segment caustic strictures; and two had anastomotic strictures after oesophageal replacement (colon, 1; stomach, 1). All patients had previously failed to respond to conventional bouginage (mean, 6 sessions; range 2-14). All patients underwent contrast studies before EGBD. EGBD was performed using flexible endoscopy and fluoroscopic screening under general anaesthesia. The mean number of EGBD procedures per patient was six (range 4-10). The functional results were complete in ten and temporary in two patients. There has been no morbidity or mortality. EGBD is safe and effective for treating oesophageal anastomotic and short-segment caustic strictures.