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Endoscopy 1990; 22(2): 63-64
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1012793
Original Contributions

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

The Danger of High Compliance Balloons for Esophageal Dilatation in Achalasia

R. Rabinovici, E. Katz, E. Goldin* , Y. Kluger, A. Ayalon
  • Department of Surgery, Hadassah University Hospital, Jerusalem, Israel
  • *Department of Gastroenterology, Hadassah University Hospital, Jerusalem, Israel
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Publication History

Publication Date:
17 March 2008 (online)

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Summary

High compliance balloons, commonly used for pneumatic dilatation of achalasia patients, theoretically subject the widened esophageal wall, proximal to the narrow zone, to increased pressure, and subsequently to a higher risk of perforation. The new type of inelastic cylindrically shaped balloons, such as the Gruntzig-type and Rigiflex Achalasia Dilator, seems to be safer, since it increases esophageal wall tension in the stenotic zone only. The purpose of this study was to present a pathophysiological consideration of this assumption, together with two cases which support it.

Key words:

Esophagus - Achalasia - Balloon dilatation

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