Retrograde approach to pharyngo-esophageal obstruction.

J.J. van Twisk*, R.J.M. Brummer, J.J. Manni

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital Maastricht, The Netherlands.

BACKGROUND: The entrance of the esophagus has to be identified for treatment of a pharyngo-esophageal obstruction. If transoropharyngeal identification is unsuccessful, a retrograde approach might be indicated. METHODS: By way of a mini-laparotomy and gastrotomy, a flexible gastroscope can be passed into the esophagus. In one patient with a Zenker's diverticulum, a guidewire was inserted through the accessory channel of the gastroscope and passed through a stenosis, caused by marked hypertrophy of the cricopharyngeal muscle, into the oral cavity. Thereafter antegrade dilatation and laser assisted myotomy could be performed. In another patient with a membranous obstruction of the esophageal entrance due to radiotherapy, the occlusion was perforated transoropharyngeally and bluntly dilatated guided by the light from the gastroscope. RESULTS: In both cases the esophageal passage was restored. No complications occurred as a result of the procedures. CONCLUSIONS: The retrograde approach may be a good alternative when antegrade identification of the esophageal entrance fails.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)296-299
Number of pages4
JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy
Volume48
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 1998

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