Question:
What is involved with an upper endoscopy balloon dilation?

I have not been able to eat solids other than crackers. Everything feels like a hard lump--then I vomit. # months post-op    — Julie C. (posted on January 31, 2004)

January 31, 2004
An endoscope is passed through your mouth into the esophagus (and as far as the stomach). Your physician will be looking for any abnormalities that would cause you to have these problems...like a stricture. If one is found, and they intend on doing a balloon dilatation, then a small balloon is passed through as well and inflated. The inflation will hopefully open up any area that is narrowed. There are other methods to dilatations, but the intent of them all is to open and passageway that is closing. Good luck!
   — M. Me

January 31, 2004
Shannon did a good job explaining the actual procedure. But here is what happened the day I had mine. I checked in (outpatient) waited about 15 min and was taken to a small room. I had to change and the nurse asked me some standard medical type questions. I laid on the bed/gurney for a while until they came to start the IV. The aenestisologist came in later to give me the sedatives. Don't even remember them wheeling me out of the room. I woke up later back in the room where my husband was waiting for me. I was unhooked from the IV, waited awhile while they monitored me. I finally could get dressed and check out. I went in around noon and left around five. I couldn't drive afterward, but I went home and was able to keep down (soft) solid food after 4 days of keeping NOTHING down. I felt so much better!
   — Ali M

February 1, 2004
i just had a scope on fri, i went home in less than 3 hours.before the procedure the put you to sleep, next thing you know it is over. you feel relief of the dilation immediately. you will feel fine when you wake up and will be able to eat again. i was scared before the procedure but, it was nothing to be concerned about. good luck paula
   — paula P.