Evaluation and management of benign esophageal strictures

Patients with progressive or solid food dysphagia should be evaluated for the presence of an esophageal stricture. Barium esophagram and endoscopy can define strictures as benign or malignant. The majority of benign strictures are acid-related. Benign strictures are best managed by esophageal dilation with acid-suppressing medications if a peptic stricture is suspected. If dysphagia recurs, repeat dilation should be performed. There are a variety of interventions for refractory strictures which include injection of intralesional corticosteroids, temporary placement of self-expanding plastic stents and surgery.