Benign refractory esophageal strictures are an important therapeutic challenge. They can have a major negative impact on a patient's quality of life and may lead to severe complications such as malnutrition, weight loss, and aspiration. This presentation will discuss anatomy and physiology of the esophagus, causes and diagnosis of benign esophageal strictures, and the diagnosis of dysphagia. A comprehensive review of current treatment options with an review of dilation therapy to include the evolution of dilators to the present day and also introducing a history of the esophageal stent from it's inception to the modern day flexible stents will be presented. A review of alternative therapies such as steroid injection or surgery will be covered. Several case studies will be highlighted showing esophageal stenting is comparable to continual esophageal dilation or surgery as a treatment option for long term relief of patients dysphagia in the setting of refractory benign strictures.

Section Description

We are pleased to present the abstracts from SGNA's 33rd Annual Course, SGNA on a Mission: Exceeding Expectations. The diversity of these topics certainly reflects the richness and breadth of our specialty. In keeping with the tradition of the Annual Course, we hope the following abstracts will encourage discussions for improving nursing practice and patient care outcomes.