Endoscopic tools and techniques for strictures and stenoses

Clinically significant luminal narrowing-whether the result of a benign, malignant, or postsurgical processes-represents a group of conditions commonly encountered by the surgeon performing endoscopy. While the introduction of proton pump inhibitors has reduced the incidence of benign peptic strictures of the esophagus requiring endoscopic dilation, the bariatric surgical revolution of the late 1990s has resulted in a large population of patients in need of similar endoscopic therapies. This chapter reviews currently available methodology for the management of strictures and stenoses found during the course of endoscopic evaluation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.