Successful treatment with hyperbaric oxygen therapy for ulcerative esophageal stricture after chemoradiotherapy: A case report

Abstract

Severe esophageal strictures resulting from chemoradiotherapy pose persistent therapeutic challenges despite the availability of treatments such as endoscopic balloon dilation and medications. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has emerged as a promising treatment option for refractory radiation-induced injury to several organs. Herein, we present the case of a 79-year-old male patient with refractory radiation-induced ulcerative esophageal strictures after chemoradiotherapy. Despite multiple interventions, including endoscopic balloon dilation, steroids, and proton-pump inhibitors, the patient remained unable to tolerate oral intake. HBOT was initiated, leading to significant improvement in the esophageal ulcers and strictures within 1 month. HBOT was well tolerated; the patient experienced a sustained improvement in his quality of life. Two years after HBOT, esophagogastroduodenoscopy confirmed persistent improvement in esophageal ulcers and strictures. This case highlights the potential of HBOT as a therapeutic option for ulcerative esophageal strictures unresponsive to conventional treatments.