Palliative endoscopic dilatation in carcinoma of the esophagus and esophagogastric junction.

The palliative effect of repeated endoscopic dilatation of malignant strictures of the esophagus and esophagogastric junction was prospectively evaluated in 41 patients. Dilatation was performed with Eder-Puestow technique in brief general anesthesia. Substantial improvement in swallowing ability was experienced after each treatment. The dysphagia recurred, however, and the dilatations were repeated at intervals of about 4 weeks. Most patients required less than or equal to three treatments during their remaining lifespan. There were few complications, the most prominent being perforation (in 5% of 128 sessions). Only short hospital stay was required, and 18 patients remained at home during the periods between dilatations. Endoscopic dilation of the esophagus and esophagogastric junction gives good palliation. The technique is simple, cheap and safe. It is suitable for lesions at any site, not time-consuming, available at almost all endoscopy units, and consequently to be recommended in this clinical setting.