cefoxitin and Epidermolysis-Bullosa

Esophageal stenosis is a severe complication in dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (EB). Endoscopic dilations may cause mucosal injury with stricture recurrence. Our aim was to describe our referral EB-center experience on safety and long-term efficacy of fluoroscopically guided balloon dilation without endoscopy.. Over 14 years, 34 patients with EB, previously evaluated with barium esophagogram for dysphagia, underwent balloon esophageal dilation. Under fluoroscopy, a guide wire was introduced via a nostril into the stomach. A 12-mm pneumatic balloon, which passed over the wire, was filled using radio-opaque contrast, dilating the stricture. Orotracheal intubation was avoided. Antibiotics, dexamethasone, and proton-pump inhibitors were administered. Study approval was obtained from our ethical board.. Ninety-three dilations were performed. Seventeen patients had a single stenosis. The mean age of onset was 18 years (range, 3-47 years). Thirteen patients underwent one dilation. In 6 cases, endoscopy was necessary to visualize the esophageal lumen. Complications included cervical esophageal perforation (2) and transitory dysphagia (10). Thirty patients were feeding within 24 hours. During the follow-up, 2 patients required a gastrostomy, and 2 patients underwent fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease.. Fluoroscopically guided balloon dilation in EB is a safe and well-tolerated procedure. An experienced endoscopy team is necessary in certain cases.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Antibiotic Prophylaxis; Catheterization; Cefoxitin; Child; Child, Preschool; Contraindications; Deglutition Disorders; Dexamethasone; Epidermolysis Bullosa; Esophageal Perforation; Esophageal Stenosis; Esophagoscopy; Female; Fluoroscopy; Gastrostomy; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Preanesthetic Medication; Proton Pump Inhibitors; Radiography, Interventional; Young Adult