Esophageal Stricture
ICD-10 K22.2 · ICD-11 DA20.0.2

Treatment of Esophageal Stricture Following External Beam Radiation

Clinical Scenario

This protocol covers radiation-induced (postradiation) esophageal stricture occurring as a consequence of external beam radiation therapy — a recognised complication in which radiation injury to the esophagus leads to stricture formation.

Condition

The esophagus is at risk of injury from radiation, which can lead to postradiation strictures. This protocol is directed at patients in whom such a stricture has developed following external beam radiation therapy.

Treatment Approach

Endoscopic dilation is the first-line treatment for radiation-induced esophageal strictures. The complete protocol — including technique selection and procedural parameters — is available below.

Primary Clinical Goal
Relief of dysphagia
Instant Access to Structured Evidence-Based Regimens
References
DOI: 10.1016/j.giec.2025.02.002

The esophagus is at risk of injury from radiation, which can lead to postradiation strictures for which endoscopic dilation is usually the first-line treatment.

In one retrospective study of 63 patients with radiation-induced strictures who underwent dilation (with TTS balloon, bougie, or both), clinical success, defined as endoscopic dilation up to 14 mm and subsequent relief of dysphagia, was achieved in 83% of patients.

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