Recurrent dilatation in resistant benign esophageal strictures: timing is significant

Abstract

Background/aim: Benign esophageal strictures are frequently encountered pathologies occurring due to various reasons. Repeated dilatations may be needed, particularly in resistant strictures. This study aimed to evaluate patients who underwent repeated dilatations in our clinic due to resistant esophageal strictures. Materials and methods: Sixteen patients who underwent multiple dilatations in our clinic with the diagnosis of resistant benign esophageal stricture between 2007 and 2014 were studied for age, sex, etiology, symptoms, complications, number of dilatations, and intervals between dilatations. Under general anesthesia, all patients underwent dilatation with Savary-Gilliard bougie dilators with the help of rigid esophagoscopy. Results: In 10 of the patients, stenosis was cervical, and in others it was in the thoracic esophagus. The mean dilatation performance was 4.4 (range: 3-12). In 9 patients, dilatations were performed when the patients presented with the complaint of dysphagia. Following the initial dilatation performed for dysphagia, 7 patients underwent endoscopy and dilatation 3-5 times with 1-week intervals without waiting for the development of dysphagia symptoms. These patients developed no complications, and no stenting was needed. In 5 patients, restenosis developed despite multiple dilatations, and esophageal stent placement was performed. Conclusion: Dilatations performed at frequent intervals without waiting for the symptoms of dysphagia can contribute to safer and more effective results in resistant benign esophageal strictures.