How long does a esophageal dilation last?

Most of the effects of the sedation persist for 15-60 minutes, and you may not be able to recall the procedure afterwards. Your throat is usually anesthetized with a spray or liquid to minimize the gag reflex. The endoscope is then gently inserted into the upper esophagus and advanced through the upper digestive tract.

How do you dilate an esophageal stricture?

Balloon dilation is the most common means that physicians use to dilate an esophageal stricture. Using a flexible endoscope inserted into the patient’s mouth and esophagus, a physician can pass a plastic catheter across the patient’s esophageal stricture. The catheter is surrounded by a clear plastic balloon.

When does the esophagus need to be stretched?

You might need to have your esophagus stretched if you have been having trouble swallowing or other problems caused by a narrowed esophagus. When you swallow, you might experience discomfort when your esophagus becomes too narrow. This can affect your ability to eat if pain and discomfort are severe enough.

How do you treat strictures of the esophagus?

Esophageal dilation is the most common treatment for strictures. Your provider uses a balloon or dilator (a long plastic or rubber cylinder) to widen the narrow area of the esophagus.

How many times can you have esophageal dilation?

Overall, one to three dilations are sufficient to relieve dysphagia in simple strictures. Only 25–35 \% of patients require additional sessions, with a maximum of five dilations in more than 95 \% of patients [4].

Is esophageal dilation considered surgery?

Esophageal dilation is a medical procedure utilizing a scope to stretch (or dilate) sections of the esophagus that have narrowed—a condition known as a stricture.

How much does esophageal dilation cost?

On MDsave, the cost of an Esophageal Dilation ranges from $1,235 to $1,565. Those on high deductible health plans or without insurance can save when they buy their procedure upfront through MDsave. Read more about how MDsave works.

How long does a pneumatic dilation last?

The median follow-up period was 9.3 years (range 0.5-15 years). The dysphagia-free duration by Kaplan-Meier analysis was 78\%, 61\% and 58.3\% after 5, 10 and 15 years respectively. CONCLUSION: Balloon dilation is a safe and effective treatment for primary achalasia.

How often will I need esophageal dilation?

How often can you dilate esophagus?

You may need to have the procedure repeated one or more times. This depends on the cause and extent of the narrowing. Repeat procedures can allow the dilation to take place more slowly.

Do I need to have my esophagus dilated twice?

Depending on the degree and cause of narrowing of your esophagus, it is common to require repeat dilations. This allows the dilation to be performed gradually and decreases the risk of complications. Once the stricture, or narrowed esophagus, is completely dilated, repeat dilations may not be required.

What are esophageal strictures and how can they be treated?

Esophageal strictures can limit or block food and liquid that’s traveling from the throat to the stomach. Swallowing is difficult and you feel food is stuck in your throat. GERD is the most common cause of strictures, but cancer and other issues can also cause them. A dilation procedure can widen the esophagus and reduce symptoms.

Why is it important to dilate the esophageal opening?

Depending on the degree and cause of narrowing of your esophagus, it is common to require repeat dilations. This allows the dilation to be performed gradually and decreases the risk of complications.

What increases my risk for perforation after esophageal dilation?

Your risk may be higher for perforation if your stricture is related to radiation therapy. 5 Your risk is also higher if you have a healthcare provider that hasn’t performed the surgery frequently. 4 Prior to the esophageal dilation, you will need to fast (not have food or water) for a minimum of six hours.