PMC6005291_01
Lateral radiographic view of the cervical area. The nasogastric tube can be seen advanced up to the stricture site at approximately the second cervical vertebra.
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fig1
Contrast medium and the nasogastric tube itself could be seen up to approximately 4 cm caudal to the larynx, where a narrowing of the esophageal lumen was visible at the second cervical vertebra (Figure 1).
Ultrasound image of the esophagus cranial to the esophageal stricture. Esophageal diameter is 9,5 mm. Left in the image is dorsal. C: carotid artery. E: esophagus. T: trachea (probe frequency 10 MHz, depth 2,5 cm).
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fig2
Involvement of only the adventitia and tunica muscularis was suspected (Figures 2 and 3).
Ultrasound image of the stricture site. Left in the image is dorsal. A substantial decrease in diameter compared to being immediately cranial to the stricture can be observed. C: carotid artery. E: esophagus. T: trachea (probe frequency 10 MHz, depth 2,5 cm).
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fig3
Involvement of only the adventitia and tunica muscularis was suspected (Figures 2 and 3).
Endoscopic view of the esophagus. The balloon catheter can be seen in place, fully dilated.
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fig4
Subsequently a 240 cm long balloon catheter (CRE  PRO Wireguided, Boston Scientific) was placed into position by advancing it through the working canal of the endoscope (Figures 4 and 5).
Endoscopic view of the esophagus immediately after balloon dilation. Slight hemorrhage can be observed.
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fig5
Subsequently a 240 cm long balloon catheter (CRE  PRO Wireguided, Boston Scientific) was placed into position by advancing it through the working canal of the endoscope (Figures 4 and 5). After deflation the stricture site was evaluated endoscopically and topically treated with 3 ml 2% dexamethasone to reduce possible swelling and scarring of the esophageal wall (Figure 5).
Ultrasound image of the stricture site at final follow-up examination. Diameter was measured at 10,9 mm. Left in the image is dorsal. C: carotid artery. E: esophagus. T: trachea (probe frequency 10 MHz, depth 3,5 cm).
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fig6
The diameter at the stricture site had increased from 5 mm to 10,9 mm as assessed by ultrasonography (Figure 6).