Endoscopic treatment of the benign and malignant esophageal stenosis.

Gastrointestinal endoscopy was born almost 40 years ago as diagnostic modality, but in last two decades with gradually developing of therapeutic possibilities gastroenterologists have taken an increasing role in the iinterventional treatment of many upper gastrointestinal problems. Modalities of treatment for esophageal stenoses were explained. Endoscopists should be aware that all of these methods has their limitations and they must be able to balance technological enthusiasm with full consideration of the patients qualities of life. All of this treatments are palliative, risky and only partially effective at best. They often need to be repeated. Even achieving a large lumen will not restore normal swallowing. The goal must be to restore "adequate but not perfect" swallowing, at lowest risk, cost and inconvenience to the patient.