Self-dilatation of oesophageal strictures.

A new technique for the management of upper and mid-oesophageal benign strictures is reported. A deflated oesophageal balloon catheter coated with steroid paste is passed by the patient through the stricture, the balloon is inflated and then withdrawn. This technique can be used for both strictures caused by tablet or corrosive damage that recur rapidly and where stricturing is the result of a chronic disease not amenable to medical or surgical treatments. Three patients in who this technique has been used with satisfactory patient tolerance and compliance and good relief of symptoms are reported.