Diagnosis and management of pharyngoesophageal stenosis: A comprehensive approach to prophylactic, endoscopic, and reconstructive treatment options

Background: Pharyngoesophageal stenosis (PES) is a serious complication that substantially impacts functional outcomes and quality of life (QOL) for up to a third of head and neck cancer patients who undergo radiotherapy. Dysphagia is often multifactorial in nature and is a devastating complication of treatment that impacts patients' QOL, general health and overall wellbeing. The authors detail the clinical presentation, risk factors, imaging characteristics, preventive measures, and multimodality treatment options for PES. Methods: The authors present a comprehensive management algorithm for PES, including treatment by dilation, stenting, spray cryotherapy and dilation, and reconstructive treatment options utilizing different pedicled and free flaps. Results: The authors advocate for a thorough assessment of the extent and degree of pharyngoesophageal involvement of PES to determine the optimal management strategy. Conclusions: The development of post treatment dysphagia requires appropriate imaging and biopsy, when indicated, to rule out the presence of persistent/recurrent cancer. Multidisciplinary management by a team of physicians well-versed in the range of diagnostic and therapeutic interventions available for PES is critical to its successful management.