Vin,
Once I could swallow again things were getting stuck farther down and in a barium swallow study MDACC finally figured out that it was a stricture in my espophagus. I went in for dilations approximately 3 times and it was never a problem. They would wheel me in, put me under and I would wake up a little groggy but feeling fine.
The procedure worked perfectly for me. I was scheduled for another dilation but a smart Dr. suggested another swallow study instead and it showed that the blockage in the espophagus was gone.
Although I am aware that these strictures can re-occur, I have had no problem whatsoever since my last dilation which was probably three years ago.

Best of luck with your wife,
Danny G.