Esophageal strictures in children may develop as a primary constrictio
n, secondary to a surgically repaired esophageal atresia (with or with
out tracheoesophageal fistula), as a result of chemical injury after c
austic ingestion, or following esophageal surgery. Traditional treatme
nt of esophageal strictures has been limited to dilation (using bougie
dilators) with esophagoscopy under general anesthesia. Recent reports
have shown success with fluoroscopically guided balloon catheter dila
tion. Eight children (aged 2 months to 14 years) were treated with bal
loon catheter dilation for focal strictures of the esophagus. In six o
f the eight cases, complete resolution of the strictures was achieved
after an average of 7.5 dilations (range, 1 to 14). Two of the eight p
atients moved to another part of the country and did not complete trea
tment. There has been no morbidity or mortality. In selected centers,
balloon catheter dilation under fluoroscopic guidance has become a saf
e treatment of benign esophageal strictures in children. It should be
considered the treatment of choice in the initial management of esopha
geal narrowing and appears to safer than the more traditional methods
of esophageal dilation. Copyright (C) 1996 by W.B. Saunders Company