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An oesophageal dilatation is a procedure to widen a narrowed oesophagus
During the procedure, a narrow, flexible tube called an endoscope is inserted into your oesophagus and a balloon is inflated to widen the narrowed area. This stretches your oesophagus and makes it easier for you to swallow.
Call or book online today to arrange a consultation to discuss private oesophageal dilatation with a consultant of your choice at Circle Health Group.
This page explains what oesophageal dilatation is, why you may need one, and what happens during the procedure.
The main benefit of oesophageal dilatation is that it stretches your oesophagus and makes it easier for you to swallow. In some cases, you may need to have the procedure more than once to achieve the full benefit.
Currently, oesophageal dilatation is the only procedure available to stretch a narrowed oesophagus. If you are unable to swallow, there are alternative ways of feeding available. Your consultant will discuss these with you, if you cannot have, or do not want to undergo oesophageal dilatation.
Your consultant may look at the results of any previous tests or scans such as an endoscopy, or they may arrange these on the day.
At Circle Health Group, your first appointment is very important as it's where we get to know you, discuss your expectations for treatment and encourage you to ask any questions you may have.
At the end of your appointment, your consultant will decide if an oesophageal dilatation is a suitable procedure for you based on your symptoms, medical history, and general health. They will explain the procedure to you, including how to prepare, what happens during the procedure, any possible risks, and complications, and what to expect during your recovery.
It is important to us that you are as well-informed and comfortable as possible before, during, and after your oesophageal dilatation, so please ask your consultant any questions you may have.
Before your oesophageal dilatation, tell your consultant about any medical conditions or allergies you have and any medication, including over-the-counter medicines you are taking.
Your consultant may tell you to stop taking some medications like blood thinners before your procedure. This is to reduce the risk of bleeding.
You will need to have a blood test around a week before your oesophageal dilatation. Your healthcare team will arrange this.
You will not be able to eat or drink anything for six hours before your oesophageal dilatation.
You will need to remove any dentures and glasses before the procedure. You will be asked to lie on an examination couch on your left side.
Your consultant will use an anaesthetic throat spray to numb your throat. This is to minimise discomfort during the procedure.
A probe will be applied to your finger to monitor your oxygen levels and you will be given oxygen through small plastic tubes in your nostrils.
A mouth guard is placed between your teeth and your consultant passes a flexible tube with a camera called an endoscope down your throat.
Once the narrowed area is located, a catheter is passed down your throat and inflated. This may be done several times until your consultant feels the area has been sufficiently dilated.
The endoscope is then passed through the dilated area to examine the stomach and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine).
Oesophageal dilatation normally takes around 20 minutes.
Your consultant will be able to give you an estimated recovery timeline based on your individual circumstances.
After your oesophageal dilatation, you will be taken to the recovery room where you will be monitored closely until the effects of the sedation have worn off. You will need to stay in the recovery room for at least two hours before you are discharged.
Oesophageal dilatation is normally done as a day case, meaning you'll be able to go home later the same day.
You will not be able to drive yourself home from the hospital after your oesophageal dilatation. Please make arrangements for someone to collect you from the hospital and stay with you for the first twenty-four hours after your procedure.
The effects of the sedation may not wear off fully for around 24 hours after your procedure. After this period, you can go back to work whenever you feel ready.
You should not drive for at least the first 24 hours after your oesophageal dilatation as the sedation may not have fully worn off.
You may have a sore throat, mild chest discomfort, and abdominal bloating after your oesophageal dilatation. This will resolve on its own within a few hours. If your throat is sore, sticking to soft food may help.
You may also feel sleepy, and lightheaded for around 24 hours after the procedure, which can make falls or accidents more likely. Take extra care and if possible arrange for someone to stay with you during this time.
Avoid the following for the first 24 hours after your oesophageal dilatation:
Most people resume normal activities the next day after oesophageal dilatation.
Oesophageal dilatation is a normally safe procedure, but as with all medical interventions, there is a small risk of complications. Your consultant will explain all the possible risks and complications of oesophageal dilatation and answer any questions you may have.
Possible complications of any surgery include:
Possible complications specific to oesophageal dilatation include:
Most people are fully recovered from oesophageal dilatation after about 24 hours.
Your healthcare team will let you know when you can eat and drink after your oesophageal dilatation. You will start with fluids and then a soft diet before progressing to normal foods. There may still be some foods you need to avoid after your procedure. You may not notice an improvement in your swallowing for a few days after your oesophageal dilatation.
Some things you can do during your recovery include:
During your oesophageal dilatation, you will be given sedation and a throat spray will be applied to your throat to numb the area. You should not feel any pain during the procedure. You may have a sore throat and mild chest discomfort after your oesophageal dilatation. This normally goes away by itself within a few hours, but please tell a member of the nursing staff if you experience pain or discomfort after your procedure.
If you would like to see a consultant or learn more about oesophageal dilation, book your appointment online today or call a member of our team directly.
Content reviewed by Circle in-house team in April 2023. Next review due April 2026.