Balloon dilatation of esophageal stenosis in children.

Balloon dilatation of benign esophageal strictures is an accepted mode of therapy in adults. This report describes balloon dilatation in 20 consecutive infants and children. The lesions treated include 11 strictures at surgical anastomotic sites, seven restrictive Nissen fundoplications, and three nonanastomotic esophageal strictures. One patient had two lesions. Most dilatations were performed on an outpatient basis without anesthesia. All strictures responded immediately to dilatation. In most cases, long-term resolution occurred after three or fewer procedures. A subgroup of patients was identified in which a prolonged course of treatment was needed. These included patients with long strictures due to esophageal atresia, patients with chronic severe esophagitis, and patients with strictures at the site of esophageal perforation. No significant complications were encountered. Balloon dilatation of esophageal stenosis in children is effective and safe and should be considered before other methods of treatment are used.