PARA-ENDOSCOPIC BALLOON DILATATION IN ACHALASIA - A NEW TECHNIQUE USING THE MICROVASIVE RIGIFLEX BALLOON DILATOR

The ideal definitive therapy for achalasia of the cardia has yet to be established. Balloon dilatation is a simple, quick, safe and effectiv e method for treating achalasia, and is being increasingly used as the first option in treatment of achalasia. Various types of balloons and techniques of dilatation have been described. In most reports dilatat ion is performed by passing the dilator over a guidewire and inflating the balloon under fluoroscopic control. A new technique of balloon di latation with the Microvasive Rigiflex balloon dilator, performed unde r direct vision without fluoroscopic control, is described. Our experi ence with this technique is reported and the literature reviewed.