Learn about our esophageal dilation (esophageal dilatation in medical terms) procedures and the conditions that cause esophageal blockage. For more details you can visit at https://www.stoneoakgi.com.
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Esophageal Dilatation San Antonio
1. Esophageal Dilatation San Antonio
Causes of Esophageal Blockage
There are several causes of blockage or stricture of the esophagus. They all can make swallowing food
and/or fluids difficult. The physician’s first job is to find the reason for the stricture or narrowing. The
answer can usually be provided by the medical history,
Physical exam,x-rays,andendoscopywhichisavisual examof the esophagususingaflexible fiber optic
tube.
Acid Peptic Stricture – Thisconditionisverycommon.The stomachproducesacidwhich,in turn,
can reflux intothe esophagus.Thiseventisusuallymade worsebythe presence of ahiatus hernia. Over
time,the acidand pepticstomachjuicesinjure the esophagus, causing inflammation and then scarring.
The fibrous scar then contracts and narrows the esophageal opening.
Schatzki’s Ring – This condition is a narrow ring of benign fibrous tissue constricting the lower
esophagus. Physicians still do not know how it develops.
2. Achalasia – This condition is uncommon and quite fascinating to physicians. The problem is a
persistent and marked spasm of the lower esophageal muscle. This spasm just does not open up to
allow food and fluid through. The result is a persistent blockage
With subsequent slow trickling of the esophageal contents into the stomach.
Ingestionof Caustic Agents – Childrenare particularlyprone toswallowingliquidlye and other
agents which can severely burn the esophagus, leaving it narrowed.
Tumors – Variousformsof tumors,benignandmalignant,can block the esophagus. This condition is
obviously very important to diagnose and be treated immediately.
Heredity – The esophagus may be partially or completely blocked at birth.
Methods of EsophagealDilatation
In mostinstances,the problemisamechanical one withobstructionactinglikeadamacross a stream.
Therefore,the treatmentmustbe mechanical.The dammustbe broken.Afteradiagnosisismade,the
physiciandeterminesthe bestmethodof treatment.The physicianhasavarietyof techniquesavailable.
Each has benefitsandisappropriate inspecificcases.The physicianwill alwaysdiscussthese options
withthe patient.
