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Balloon dilatation is one of several methods available to the Gastroenterologist for the treatment of strictures of the gastrointestinal tract. Strictures occur most commonly in the esophagus, but may also occur in the pylorus, biliary tract and colon. Most dilation procedures are for benign strictures of the esophagus which make swallowing extremely difficult. The pylorus may also stricture making emptying of the stomach difficult. Ducts of the biliary tree may stricture as a result of scarring, inflammation or cancer. And, the colon may stricture usually as a result of surgical scarring. Click here to view image—Esophageal Balloon Dilatation ProcedureTrans-endoscopic balloon dilatation is the most advanced method to treat strictures. First the stricture is visualized endoscopically. Then, a balloon dilatation catheter is advanced through the working channel of the endoscope until it exits the tip near the stricture. The tip of the balloon dilator is advanced through the stricture and the balloon positioned so that it is centered in the stricture. The balloon is then inflated with saline solution to reach an indicated pressure; the balloon may be inflated and deflated several times to assure effective dilatation. In some cases, progressive dilatation, i.e. successively larger balloons may be inflated to achieve stricture dilatation. Balloon dilatation at Nova Specialty SurgeryBalloon dilatation is performed by expert surgeons at the following Nova Specialty Surgery Centers. Click on the location to make an appointment. |
