What is an EGD with dilation?

What is Esophageal Dilation? Esophageal dilation is a procedure that allows your doctor to dilate, or stretch, a narrowed area of your esophagus [swallowing tube]. Doctors can use various techniques for this procedure. Your doctor might perform the procedure as part of a sedated endoscopy.

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Why would you need esophageal dilation?

When you have difficulty swallowing food due to a narrowed esophagus, your doctor might recommend undergoing esophageal dilation. This procedure involves stretching your esophagus in order to open it up more.

How long does an EGD with dilation take?

The procedure takes about 15 minutes. An endoscope (scope) is used. This is a narrow tube with a tiny light and camera at the end. The scope is inserted through your mouth and into your esophagus.

What is normal dilation of esophagus?

The optimal target diameter of endoscopic dilation of benign esophageal strictures is unknown and therefore an arbitrary measure. To ensure luminal patency, patients are usually dilated to 16–20 mm [13–16].

What are the symptoms of needing your esophagus stretched?

Typical symptoms include:

difficult or painful swallowing.
unintended weight loss.
regurgitation of food or liquids.
sensation of something stuck in the chest after you eat.
frequent burping or hiccups.
heartburn.

Is an esophageal dilation painful?

Is Esophageal Dilation Painful? While minimally invasive, esophageal dilation can cause bruising and soreness. Some patients may experience discomfort during the procedure, and pain when swallowing in the days afterward.

What is the success rate of esophageal dilation?

Esophageal dilation is usually indicated for benign stenoses and is technically successful in more than 90% of cases. Most patients with esophageal carcinoma are not candidates for resection; thus, the main focus of treatment is palliation of malignant dysphagia and esophagorespiratory fistulas.

Is esophageal dilation successful?

Is esophageal dilation safe?

While esophageal dilation is generally a safe procedure, there are some risks that you should be aware of. Even though the risks sound scary, esophageal dilation, in general, is safe to perform in an outpatient setting and does not need to be performed in a hospital.