Esophageal Function: A Primer for Clinicians

Editor:

Klaus Bielefeldt, M.D., Ph.D.*
Assistant Professor
Department of Internal Medicine

Contributors:

The University of Iowa

*Currently Faculty Member in Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh

Peer Review Status: Pending
First Published: May 2001
Last Revised: February 2002

Table of Contents

Preface

1. Physiology of Swallowing

   • 1.1. The "Swallowing Organs"

2. Manometry

   • 2.1. Technical Considerations

   • 2.2. Examination Technique

   • 2.3. Safety

   • 2.4. Pitfalls

3. Normal Esophageal Motility

4. Abnormal Esophageal Motility

   • 4.1. Achalasia

   • 4.2. Diffuse Esophageal Spasm

   • 4.3. Hypertensive Lower Esophageal Sphincter

   • 4.4. Nutcracker Esophagus

   • 4.5. Non-specific Motility Disturbances

5. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and Esophageal Motility

   • 5.1. Esophageal Motility as a Factor in Reflux Disease

   • 5.2. Esophageal Motility and Fundoplication

   • 5.3. Ambulatory pH Monitoring

     • 5.3.1. Technique

     • 5.3.2. Parameters

     • 5.3.3. Safety

     • 5.3.4. Dual Probe pH Monitoring

     • 5.3.5. Limitations

     • 5.3.6. Typical Patterns

6. Connective Tissue Disorders and Esophageal Motility
7. Diabetes Mellitus and Esophageal Motility
8. Neuromuscular Disorders and Esophageal Motility