Achalasia of the oesophagus: treatments with pneumatic dilatation.
A series of 51 patients with achalasia of the oesophagus treated by pneumatic dilatation between 1980 and 1988 is reported. Treatment was assessed as effective (no or minimal dysphagia) in 78% of patients, followed for a mean of 30 months. Thirty-four patients required only one dilatation and only two patients had more than 3 dilatations. There were no deaths, but perforation occurred in seven patients, four of whom required early surgical repair. A further five patients were referred for elective surgery. Factors possibly contributing to oesophageal perforation are discussed.
Prewett
E J
EJ
Gastroenterology Unit, St Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia.
Desmond
P V
PV
Breen
K J
KJ
D002404:Catheterization / Q000295:instrumentation; D004931:Esophageal Achalasia / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008365:Manometry; D008875:Middle Aged; D012189:Retrospective Studies