Muhammad Asghar.
Radiological investigation of Dysphagia at D.H.Q. teaching hospital D.I.Khan.
J Ayub Med Coll Abottabad Jan ;16(2):70-2.

Background: Dysphagia is a common presenting symptom. In most of the cases with established dysphagia extensive investigations are required to ascertain the cause. A number of advanced diagnostic radiological facilities are available at bigger centers, however conventional radiography is the mainstay of radiologist in less equipped centers. This study was conducted to have a critical review of diagnostic accuracy of conventional radiography at our center. Methods: This study was conducted at Radiology department of DHQ teaching hospital, Dera Ismail Khan from 01-01-2001 to 30-06-2002. Available methods of conventional radiography including plain radiography neck, lateral view in extension, x-ray Chest P.A. and lateral views, Barium /Gastrografin swallow-AP and lateral views were used for the diagnosis. Results: Out of 100 cases, 35 patients were of Esophageal growth, I case of Esophageal Web, 4 cases of Esophageal Diverticula, I case of Corrosive Stricture, 1 case of Transverse colon-replacement surgery, 5 cases of Extrinsic compression by Cardiomegaly, 1 case of Esophageal Diverticula with growth, 2 cases of Retropharyngeal abscess, 5 cases of Achalasia, 2 cases of Hiatus hernia/gastro-Esophageal reflux, 4 cases of Foreign Bodies in the Esophagus-Coins/Fish bone, 2 cases of Marked Osteophytosis in the Cervical / Thoracic Spine and 1 case of Esophageal Atresia with Tracheo-Esophageal Fistula. The diagnosis was no radiological abnormality in 36 cases. Conclusions: Diagnoses by conventional radiography methods is possible in most cases of dysphagia at our center, however advanced facilities are required for inconclusive cases.

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