Nelie,

I had two endoscopies with dilation performed by a gastro--intestinal doctor in Dec 05 and they were a piece of cake! And they did dramatically improve my swallowing ability. I saw no risk. It was out patient and they sedate you first. I don't even remenber having a sore throat. Like you, there is some scar tissue there due to radiation.
All I know is that I passed the barium swallow test much better after these treatments. This after a year of therapy and Vital Stim. I too was told about bad effects before I had them done but I'm very glad I went ahead. Hope this helps.

Jim Haucke
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SCC rt lat tongue dx 9/03;surg 11/03;recur 1/04, dx SCC stage 4 anterior 2/3 of tongue and pharynx; surg 12 hrs 2/04 subtotal glossectomomy, forearm flap, pharyngectomy; PEG (still have)I now use a syringe for oral intake as tongue flap is sewn to floor of mouth & immobile); 36 rads spring 04