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Oesophageal dilatation

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

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Endoscopic dilatation has surpassed the previous 'blind' technique of passing a mercury-filled bougie through the oesophageal stricture. The stricture is still mechanically widened, but an endoscope is used to pass a flexible guidewire through the stricture. Over the guidewire is passed either bougies - hollow-core dilators - or a dilating balloon.

Two or three dilatations are performed at each visit - the 'Rule of threes' is followed. Most patients require only one such visit; men are more likely to require extra dilatations.

Perforation is a rare complication of passing the guidewire or the bougie. Very rarely, a 'false passage' may be produced.


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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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