Esophageal Strictures

Esophageal strictures are narrowed places within the esophagus that can make it difficult to swallow. They can occur due to acid reflux, viral or bacterial infections or esophagitis. More rarely, they may be attributable to ingesting a corrosive substance, an injury incurred during an endoscopic exam or an esophageal tumor. The primary treatment for an esophageal stricture is dilation. Here, the esophagus is widened via a special balloon procedure or other method. Esophageal strictures that recur or cannot be addressed with this type of treatment may be resolved via surgery.