BENIGN ESOPHAGEAL STRICTURES

Abstract

An esophageal stricture refers to the abnormal narrowing of the esophageal lumen. It often presents as dysphagia commonly described by patients as difficulty in swallowing. It is a serious sequela to many different disease processes and underlying etiologies. Benign means that it is not caused by cancer of the esophagus, and subjects to inflammation, esophagitis, and scar tissue, which causes the esophagus to narrow. Its recognition and management should be prompt.These strictures have a negative impact on the quality of life of patients, mainly because of dysphagia and may lead to severe complications, such as malnutrition, weight loss and aspiration. Endoscopic dilation with bougies or balloons is initial standard treatment for such lesions.Esophagectomy is rarely needed for benign conditions. Usually reserved for end-stage disease, when the esophagus is either severely non-functional or when quality of life is very poor. In these circumstances esophagectomy is a good option to consider and it is associated with encouraging success rates and improved quality of life. Depending on the specific disease leading to organ failure, peculiar technical issues should be carefully evaluated in order to avoid complications and optimize results