Esophageal dilation is a treatment to help stretch, or dilate, abnormal narrowings found in theesophagus.
These narrowings are calledstricturesand can occur from a variety of health problems.
They can cause difficulty or discomfort when swallowing.
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Why Is Esophageal Dilation Performed?
These strictures can make it difficult to swallow.
You may have a feeling of food getting stuck in your chest.
This feeling is because the food has a difficult time moving past the stricture.
In most cases, these strictures are a result of fibrous or collagen tissue accumulation.
However, esophageal dilation can be a useful method of relieving symptoms.
Associated Risks
You should only have esophageal dilation performed by a trained care provider.
While esophageal dilation is generally a safe procedure, there are some risks that you should be aware of.
Bleeding and aspiration can occur with almost any procedure involving the airway or esophagus.
Your healthcare provider will watch for these complications throughout the procedure.
What to Expect
Prior to the esophageal dilation, you will need to fast.
This means you might’t have food or water, usually for a minimum of six hours.
You should follow your healthcare providers pre-procedure instructions regarding fasting time.
You may not need to be taken off the medication.
However, your healthcare provider may choose to adjust your dose or take extra precautions.
Not telling your healthcare provider about these medications may increase your risk of having a bleeding complication.
You may also be prescribed antibiotics prior to the procedure if you have a history of certain heart diseases.
If you take antibiotics with dental work, you should confirm to discuss this with your healthcare provider.
During the procedure, your healthcare provider may use sedation for help you relax.
If this method is used, you will need someone to drive you home.
Because the anesthetic inhibits normal swallowing functions, fluids should be withheld until the anesthetic has worn off.
This is to keep liquid from going into your lungs instead of your stomach.
You will likely also have a mild sore throat for several days after the procedure.
It is common for symptoms to eventually return after an esophageal dilation.
Esophageal dilation is a treatment and not a cure.
However, symptom relief makes this procedure very helpful for improving your quality of life.
Summary
Esophageal dilation is a procedure that stretches narrow parts of the esophagus called strictures.
This procedure can help you swallow food more easily.
When this happens, you may need to undergo the procedure again.
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