For individuals struggling with esophagus-related ailments, a procedure called esophageal dilation may be necessary. This procedure enables your Brooklyn gastrointestinal doctor to dilate or stretch the size of your esophagus. This can help you to swallow easier and may improve your overall quality of life. There are several methods to performing this procedure, but the most common is done under sedation and using an endoscope. In some cases, your doctor may use a local anesthetic spray instead.
Esophageal Dilation at Atlantic Gastroenterology
What are the causes of esophageal strictures?
There’s a variety ranging from a caustic injury that is accidental or otherwise, ingestion of alkaline dyes or chemical solvents or anything like that. It’s rare, but it happens.
Chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease will cause fibrous tissue formation within the esophagus due to frequent bathing of the esophagus in natural stomach acids.
Any condition that will cause either an acute or chronic injury to the esophagus in any part of the esophagus can and will induce scar tissue formation within the esophagus.
Over time, scar tissue will grow, and it will continue to grow until such time when it starts impeding with normal esophageal function.
What is the normal esophageal function?
To allow food and drinks to go down from the mouth into the stomach uninhibited.
Whenever patients develop sufficiently large enough fibrous tissue, the patient will start feeling as if something is getting stuck in their chest.
What is the Esophageal dilation procedure?
Typically we employ an upper endoscopy to identify the problem. Thereafter, there are various tools that we use to open up those strictures to rectify the problem patients develop.
More frequently nowadays, the safest way of doing a dilation is esophageal balloon dilation.
We employ a sausage-like device that is passed under direct visualization under the upper endoscope into the esophagus.
After which we dilate that tool either with saline or air and slowly inflate it.
Which slowly starts stretching the scar tissue until it rips it. And once the ripping effect takes place, that’s when we know the esophageal patency has been restored. Food and liquids will start flowing into the stomach uninhibitedly.
Feel free to give us a call today and learn more about esophageal dilation.
Why Do You Need an Esophageal Dilation?
Though various reasons and benefits exist for using the esophageal dilation procedure, the most common is to improve the narrowing of the esophagus. The esophagus may be scarred as a result of stomach acids. If you suffer from heartburn, this is common. The procedure is also used for those struggling with swallowing and who suffer from pain, discomfort, or a feeling of something “stuck” in their throat. In addition, esophageal dilation can be beneficial after scarring occurs as a result of radiation treatment for cancer.
What Happens During Esophageal Dilation?
Several techniques are available, but your Brooklyn gastroenterologist will tell you more about what you can expect when you visit his or her office. Generally, the procedure is done as an upper endoscopy. This is a painless procedure that’s easily tolerated and requires no invasive surgery. During the procedure, you’ll be given a sedative to help you relax. You won’t gag or choke. Your doctor will place a mouthpiece in place to hold open the mouth. Then, he or she will insert a small, thin tube called an endoscope into the mouth and down the esophagus to the stomach and duodenum. A second instrument, called a tapered dilating tool, is then added. This makes the adjustments to your esophagus. The entire procedure takes about 10 to 20 minutes to complete.
After the procedure, you may feel a little sore. You will need to remain at the facility until all of the side effects of your anesthesia have worn off. Most people are able to begin eating and get back to daily routines right away, though you will be unable to drive for 12 hours.
What Information Comes from the Esophageal Dilation Procedure?
The results of your procedure can take some time to be complete. In some situations, your Brooklyn doctor will use this opportunity to take a biopsy of the tissues present. This tissue is then further investigated under a microscope. The dilation procedure does not necessarily have such further investigations. However, you will meet with your Brooklyn GI doctor after the procedure to talk about what happened and what you can expect going forward.
Some people may need to have a repeat of the esophageal dilation procedure done. This may be necessary in situations where the narrowing of the esophagus is significant. However, most people begin to see improvement in any symptoms they had prior to the procedure right away. Your Brooklyn gastro doctor will discuss any future treatments or other types of procedures you may need after your exam at one of our offices in either Cobble Hill or Ocean Parkway in Brooklyn, NY.
Frequently Asked Questions About Esophageal Dilation
What are the causes of esophageal blockage?
Esophageal blockage occurs when the esophagus narrows. Common causes include acid reflux damage, tumors, scar tissue, inflammation, or conditions like Schatzki’s Ring and achalasia. Some people are born with a narrow esophagus, while others develop it over time due to chronic irritation or injury. A narrowed or obstructed esophagus makes eating difficult and painful.
Do I need any preparation for esophageal dilation?
Yes. We will ask you not to eat or drink for about six hours before the procedure. Your doctor will review your medications, particularly blood thinners, and give specific instructions. Proper preparation helps maximize comfort and safety.
Is esophageal dilation painful?
No! As with upper endoscopy, we perform the procedure with sedation to maximize your comfort. You’ll not feel pain, and the procedure won’t trigger choking. The procedure itself is non-surgical and doesn’t involve incisions or sutures. Afterward, you may feel mild throat or chest soreness, which typically resolves within a day or two.
Will I go home after esophageal dilation?
Yes. Esophageal dilation is usually performed as an outpatient procedure. You will go home the same day after a short recovery period. Because sedation is used, you will need someone to drive you home. Ensure you take adequate rest for the rest of the day until the sedation effects wear off.
What can I eat after esophageal dilation?
Once you feel that the throat is no longer numb, you may drink water. Start your diet with soft foods such as pudding, eggs, yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, and bananas. You can slowly resume your regular diet within a few days or as soon as you are able.
Are there any potential risks or complications of esophageal dilation?
The procedure rarely causes serious complications when done by trained personnel. However, as with any medical procedure, esophageal dilation carries inherent risks. Mild side effects may include soreness or minor discomfort. Rare but possible side risks include tearing the esophagus wall, reaction to anesthesia, and bleeding. Your gastro doctor will discuss potential side effects before the procedure to ensure you are well-informed.
Why would I need repeated esophageal dilation?
Some conditions cause the esophagus to narrow again over time. If symptoms return, you may need repeat dilation to maintain proper swallowing function. Sometimes, your procedure may be performed over two visits to ensure gradual dilation and prevent complications. Your Brooklyn gastroenterologist will monitor your progress and recommend treatment as needed.
How much does esophageal dilation cost in Brooklyn, NY?
The cost varies based on insurance coverage and the complexity of the procedure. Atlantic Gastroenterology provides your cost breakdown during consultation. We’ll also discuss insurance, financing, and self-pay options to make your treatment manageable.
Does insurance cover the cost of esophageal dilation?
Most insurance plans cover esophageal dilation when deemed medically necessary. However, coverage varies by plan. Ensure you verify your benefits before treatment to avoid surprises down the line.
Does my Brooklyn gastroenterologist offer esophageal dilation?
Esophageal dilation is a quick and minimally invasive solution to help you swallow food comfortably again. If you need a GI specialist who provides esophageal dilation in Brooklyn and the surrounding locations, call 718 521-2840 and schedule an appointment with Atlantic Gastroenterology. Our board-certified gastroenterologists, Dr. Alexis Shapsis and Dr. Jason Saltiel, provide expert care to help you live life to the fullest.