Balloon-dilatation of esophageal strictures in children.

Dilatation of benign esophageal strictures by means of a balloon-catheter is a well-established procedure in adults. This method is also useful in children. The technique is described and the results of treatment in 10 children are reported. In all our patients the stricture developed after an operation for esophageal atresia with an end-to-end anastomosis. Dilatation with a balloon-catheter seems to have the same or an even better effect than the traditional dilatation with bougies. Complications following balloon-dilatations have been few and negligible in this series and dilatations can be performed using sedation instead of general anaesthesia. Therefore, this method is recommended.