Endoscopic Ultrasound Miniprobe-Guided Steroid Injection for Treatment of Refractory Esophageal Strictures

Abstract

Local injection of corticosteroids into refractory esophageal strictures to decrease the restenosis rate has been reported. Here we report our efforts in three patients to render the delivery of steroids more precise, by injecting them in the thickest segment of the stricture with the guidance of a high frequency ultrasound miniprobe passed through a regular upper endoscope. Steroid injection under ultrasound miniprobe guidance may be indicated for patients who do not respond to a “blind” steroid injection without miniprobe guidance.