1.   Endoscopic dilatation is safe and effective for short and long term relief of dysphagia in patients with corrosive oesophageal strictures.

2.   We have reported that endoscopic dilatation is an effective and safe short term treatment for corrosive oesophageal strictures.

3.   No compatative study of endoscopic dilatation with surgery in the management of corrosive oesophageal strictures has been reported.

4.   The early success of endoscopic dilatation is comparable with surgery.

5.   In summary, our study shows that endoscopic dilatation is an effective and safe treatment for short and long term relief of dysphagia in patients with corrosive oesophageal strictures.

6.   In view of high efficacy and safety, it is recommended that patients with corrosive strictures should be considered first for endoscopic dilatation.