Retrograde dilation of esophageal strictures with balloon dilators.

Balloon dilators may be safely applied for retrograde dilation of esophageal strictures without the use of fluoroscopy or a pressure-gauge attachment. The turgidity of the dilating balloon is preferred to that of other materials such as polyvinyl, rubber, or metal. The technique enables endoscopic monitoring and can be adapted for strictures elsewhere in the gastrointestinal tract.