Balloon dilation facilitates stapling in esophagojejunostomy.

A technique for facilitating stapled anastomosis in end to end esophagojejunostomy is described. The jejunal loop and the esophagus are dilated with a Sengstaken-Blakemore tube and a Foley catheter respectively prior to the introduction of the stapling gun. Balloon dilation simplifies the insertion and removal of the gun. The procedure is atraumatic and allows the use of larger size stapling cartridges.