Pediatric esophageal stricture

At Children's Health℠, we treat more kids with esophageal strictures than almost any other pediatric hospital in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Our deep knowledge and expertise means we have some of the best pediatric specialists in Texas. We use advanced endoscopic procedures to provide the most effective and least invasive treatments for your child. We look forward to serving your family with compassionate, high-quality care.

Dallas

214-456-8000
Fax: 214-456-8005

Plano

469-497-2505
F: 469-497-2511

Park Cities

469-488-7000
Fax: 469-488-7001

Prosper

469-303-5000
Fax: 214-867-9511

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What is a pediatric esophageal stricture?

An esophageal stricture is a tight or narrowed area in the esophagus – the “food tube” that connects the mouth to the stomach. This condition can make it difficult for liquid and food to pass through the esophagus.

What are the signs and symptoms of of a pediatric esophageal stricture?

How is a pediatric esophageal stricture diagnosed?

Our pediatric gastroenterologists (specialists in digestive disorders) have extensive training and expertise in caring for children who have esophageal strictures.

We use advanced testing to diagnose pediatric esophageal strictures, including:

  • Upper endoscopy - This test involves placing an endoscope (thin tube with a camera) into the mouth and down through the esophagus to view inside.
  • Esophagram (barium swallow or “upper GI”) - For this procedure, your child will drink a special liquid that shows up on X-rays. We then take a chest X-ray, and the barium shows the shape and size of the esophagus more clearly.

What causes a pediatric esophageal stricture?

Typical causes of esophageal strictures in children include:

  • Injuries to the esophagus from accidentally swallowing small objects or harmful chemicals with lye, such as bleach, laundry detergents or batteries
  • Scar tissue from a previous surgery on the esophagus
  • Long-term use of a feeding tube

Conditions that damage or cause inflammation in the esophagus lining, such as:

How is a pediatric esophageal stricture treated?

  • Medication - Our gastroenterologists may prescribe medication for your child to treat conditions that are causing the stricture, such as GERD or eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE).
  • Esophageal dilation - At Children’s Health, our pediatric gastroenterologists usually treat esophageal strictures with a procedure called esophageal dilation. To start, we will insert an endoscope into your child’s mouth and down into the esophagus. We then insert a tiny, deflated balloon through the tube and inflate it just enough to stretch the narrowed area.
    • Stent - In some cases, we place a small tube-like device (stent) in the esophagus to keep it open as it heals. Our gastroenterologists remove the stent later in a follow-up procedure.

Esophageal stricture in children - Children's Health

Pediatric esophageal stricture doctors and providers

Our team of gastroenterologists, nurse practitioners and physician assistants are highly trained and experienced in treating children with esophageal strictures. Our experts will work together to create the best care plan for your child and help relieve their discomfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the success rate of esophageal dilation?

    On average, esophageal dilation can successfully treat 80 to 90% of esophageal strictures in children.

  • How long does it take to recover after esophageal dilation?

    After esophageal dilation, your child’s throat may feel sore, but it usually improves within one day. Applying warm compresses or a heat pack may help ease discomfort.