Abstract: ObjectiveTo study the effects and feasibility of balloon dilatation on cricopharyngeal achalasia in children with dysphagia. MethodsOne 21-month-old child was reported. ResultsAfter 14 times dilatation therapy, the video fluoroscopic swallowing study showed that the bolus can pass the cricopharyngeus. The residuals in the epiglottis and piriform sinuses reduced. No bucking and aspiration happened and the cricopharygeus muscle relaxed normally. The gastric tube can be removed and the child got full per-oral nutrition. ConclusionBalloon dilatation is effective to relax the cricopharygeus muscle and improve the swallowing function of children with dysphagia because of cricopharyngeal achalasia.

Key words: cricopharyngeal achalasia, dysphagia, balloon dilatation, child