Balloon dilatation of upper gastrointestinal tract strictures.

Balloon dilatation has been performed in a series of 30 patients with strictures of the upper gastrointestinal tract over a period of 28 months. The technique of balloon dilatation is described and the results of follow-up are presented. Sixty per cent of patients have remained symptom-free following balloon dilatation. Twenty-seven per cent of patients have undergone regular repeated dilatations when symptoms have recurred. There were no complications from the technique. Balloon dilatation is a safe and acceptable alternative to conventional methods of bougienage in the management of upper gastrointestinal tract strictures.