Balloon dilation is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat esophageal strictures or narrowing of the esophagus. The procedure involves inflating a balloon to widen the narrowed area, providing relief from swallowing difficulties. It’s commonly performed under endoscopic guidance and may require multiple sessions to achieve optimal results. Balloon dilation is particularly useful for patients with conditions like achalasia or scarring from acid reflux. Dr. Patta specializes in balloon dilation procedures, offering safe and effective treatment for patients with esophageal narrowing.
What is Balloon Dilation?
Esophageal balloon dilation is a therapeutic procedure used to widen a narrowed section of the esophagus, the tube connecting the throat to the stomach. This narrowing can result from conditions such as esophageal strictures, achalasia, or esophageal rings/webs.
When is Balloon Dilation Done?
Esophageal Strictures:
Narrowing caused by chronic inflammation, GERD, radiation therapy, or surgical scarring.
Achalasia:
A condition where the lower esophageal sphincter fails to relax properly, leading to difficulty swallowing.
Esophageal Rings/Webs:
Thin layers of tissue that narrow the esophagus.
This balloon dilation procedure is typically done to treat these conditions, improving the patient’s ability to swallow.
Balloon Dilation Procedure
The procedure involves using an endoscope to guide a balloon catheter into the narrowed area of the esophagus. Under fluoroscopic or endoscopic guidance, the balloon is inflated to a predetermined size to stretch and widen the esophageal lumen. This procedure may need to be repeated several times to fully achieve the desired widening of the esophagus.
Balloon dilation surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis and may require sedation.
After Esophageal Dilation
Esophageal balloon dilation is generally considered safe and effective, particularly for recurrent strictures. It significantly improves patients’ ability to swallow normally.
Recovery may involve transient pain, which usually settles down with pain medication within a day.
In some cases, balloon dilation complications may arise, and surgical correction may be necessary if the procedure does not produce the desired results.
Dr. Patta’s Expertise in Balloon Dilation
Dr. Patta has been performing esophageal balloon dilation for many years with a high success rate, especially in deserving patients. His extensive experience ensures the best possible outcomes for patients undergoing this procedure.
At Dr. Patta’s Gastro Centre, we specialize in consultations and minor surgeries. For more complex treatments, Dr. Patta operates at MGM Malar Hospital from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. This ensures that all patients receive the most appropriate care, based on the severity of their condition, in a fully equipped hospital environment.
FAQ
What is the cost of balloon dilation?
The cost of balloon dilation in Chennai can vary based on the facility and the specifics of the procedure.
What is the success rate of balloon dilation of the esophagus?
Balloon dilation has a high success rate, particularly for treating recurrent esophageal strictures.
What is the recovery time for endoscopic balloon dilation?
Recovery is generally quick, with most patients resuming normal activities within a day.
Is it painful to swallow after esophageal dilation?
Some transient pain may occur after the procedure, but it typically resolves with pain medication.
What happens if esophageal dilation does not work?
If esophageal balloon dilation does not achieve the desired results, surgical correction may be considered to help the patient swallow normally.
