Dilatation

Dilatation is involves stretching the narrowed area.

Dilatation usually takes about a quarter of an hour.

If appropriate, the endoscopist may offer you a sedative to help you relax.

The endoscopist will place a flexible telescope (endoscope) into the back of your throat. From here the endoscope will pass on into your duodenum.

The endoscopist will be able to look for problems in these organs. They will be able to perform biopsies and take photographs to help make the diagnosis. The endoscopist can perform a dilatation using a guidewire and dilators or a balloon dilator.

What complications can happen?

• Sore throat
• Allergic reaction
• Breathing difficulties or heart irregularities
• Infection
• Making a hole in the oesophagus, stomach or duodenum
• Damage to teeth or bridgework
• Bleeding
• Incomplete procedure

Dilatation is usually a safe and effective way of finding out if you have a problem with the upper part of your digestive system.