Botulinum toxin for dysphagia due to cricopharyngeal dysfunction.

Botulinum injection in the cricopharyngeal muscle has not yet been described thoroughly. In reviewing the literature, only 24 cases were found in which botulinum injection was used to treat cricopharyngeal dysfunction. We want to add another four cases and discuss specific indications and necessary pre-treatment examinations. Depending on the patient's history and the clinical findings, botulinum injection may be performed. Manometry and videofluoroscopy are not mandatory. The type of functional pathology defines whether botulinum toxin will be a definite treatment or a temporary relief.