title: Endoscopic pneumatic balloon dilatation for achalasia of the cardia.
abstract: This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of endoscopic pneumatic balloon dilatation as the initial treatment for achalasia of the cardia. 15 patients with achalasia underwent a total of 19 dilatations using the new polyethylene dilator (Microvasive Rigiflex Balloon Dilator) over the last 6 years. An overall treatment success rate of 93% was achieved. 11 patients (73.3%) have not required a further dilatation and 3 patients (20%) required between 1 and 2 further dilatations. Elective surgery was necessary in 1 patient. The mean follow-up period was 31.5 months. There was no complication or death attributable to the procedure. Endoscopic pneumatic balloon dilation is a safe and effective treatment for achalasia and should be considered as the initial treatment of choice in most patients with achalasia.
authors.affiliation: Specialists Centre, Penang.
authors.forename: P H
authors.initials: PH
authors.lastname: Ding
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002404:Catheterization; D004724:Endoscopy; D004931:Esophageal Achalasia / Q000628:therapy*; D004947:Esophagus / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged