OESOPHAGEAL DILATATION
Narrated film with captions.

Why food catches
A narrowed food pipe can make food catch. Dilatation widens that area to help swallowing.

Different causes
The cause may be reflux scarring, a thin ring, EoE or a surgical join. Examination and biopsies help establish the cause.

Before treatment
Follow the instructions provided about fasting and medicines. The expected benefit, risks and alternatives are discussed before treatment.

Balloon dilatation
A balloon passes through the gastroscope and is positioned across the narrowing. It expands to a selected size, then is deflated and removed.

Wire-guided Savary dilatation
Another option uses a smooth, tapered dilator over a guidewire. It widens the narrowing as it passes through. It does not inflate or stay inside.

Improvement and repeat treatment
The aim is easier swallowing. Some narrowings need several sessions, or tighten again. Treatment of reflux or EoE with medicines may still be needed.

Extra support with eating
Some people also benefit from assessment by a dietitian or speech-language therapist for nutrition or swallowing support.

Risks and treatment
Risks include pain, bleeding and sedation problems. Significant perforation is relatively uncommon but can be serious. It may need hospital care, endoscopic treatment or surgery.

Recovery
Follow your own eating, medicine and sedation instructions. The team checks your recovery before discharge and explains follow-up.

When to get help
Persistent pain, fever, breathlessness, bleeding or difficulty swallowing fluids need urgent assessment. Call 111 if severely unwell.