Endoscopic repair of a complete post-radiation esophageal obstruction

J Gastrointestin Liver Dis. 2008 Sep;17(3):335-8.

Abstract

We describe a 64-year-old man with squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus who presented with an obstruction of the esophagus following radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Initial upper gastrointestinal barium swallow studies showed a complete stoppage of the barium column, not unlike that of a congenital esophageal atresia. Therapeutic endoscopy was performed using a two-endoscope, two-operator system that reestablished patency of the esophagus. Repeated endoscopy was then used to continue esophageal dilation with eventual placement of a permanent stent. A video and a comprehensive review of the literature regarding combined antegrade-retrograde dilation techniques used to date are also provided.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / radiotherapy
  • Endoscopy*
  • Esophageal Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Esophageal Stenosis / etiology*
  • Esophageal Stenosis / surgery*
  • Esophagus / radiation effects*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Radiotherapy / adverse effects