My husband was also told that he might have to reconcile to a feeding tube the rest of his life but we decided to seek another opinion from Emory in Atlanta and the Dr. there opened his esophagus about the size of two thumbs. His esophagus was opened June 27, 2006 and today he ate a small roast beef sandwich! Plus he can actually taste to boot! Don't give up. Get a 2nd, 3rd, or 4th opinion if need be. Best of luck.

sybil