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Related Concept Videos

Barrett Esophagus-I: Introduction01:21

Barrett Esophagus-I: Introduction

Barrett's esophagus is a medical condition where the esophageal mucosa is significantly damaged by stomach acid or other digestive fluids, often due to long-term exposure associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In GERD, a weakened or abnormally relaxed lower esophageal sphincter allows stomach acid to flow persistently into the esophagus.
This constant acid exposure transforms the esophagus's pink mucosal lining (stratified squamous epithelium) into a type of lining more similar...
Barrett Esophagus-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management01:21

Barrett Esophagus-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management

Individuals with Barrett's esophagus are often asymptomatic, but they may experience symptoms commonly associated with GERD, such as heartburn and acid regurgitation. Additional symptoms can include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, unintentional weight loss, blood in the stool (which may appear black, tarry, or bloody), and episodes of vomiting.
To diagnose Barrett's esophagus, healthcare providers often recommend an endoscopy for those showing symptoms of acid reflux. The procedure entails...
Esophageal Strictures-I: Introduction01:30

Esophageal Strictures-I: Introduction

Esophageal strictures involve abnormal narrowing or tightening of the esophagus. They vary in length and severity, ranging from mild constriction to complete obstruction, and are classified as benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
Etiology
The primary cause of esophageal strictures is long-standing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), accounting for about 70 to 80% of adult cases. Chronic acid reflux can lead to injury and scarring of the esophageal lining, culminating in...
Esophageal Achalasia01:27

Esophageal Achalasia

Esophageal achalasia is a chronic neurogenic disorder characterized by impaired relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and absent or ineffective peristalsis in the distal esophagus. This leads to a functional obstruction without a physical blockage, despite significant disruption of esophageal motility.EtiologyAchalasia is caused by degeneration of the myenteric (Auerbach's) plexus, specifically the loss of inhibitory ganglion cells that produce vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP)...
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease01:25

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the backward flow of stomach contents (acid, pepsin, or bile) into the esophagus, causing mucosal inflammation known as esophagitis. It results from failure of antireflux mechanisms, mainly the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), influenced by mechanical and physiological factors.Etiology and Risk FactorsGERD develops when LES function is weakened or when intra-abdominal pressure increases. Risk factors include aging, obesity, and sliding hiatal hernia,...
Hiatal Hernia01:25

Hiatal Hernia

A hiatal hernia is the abnormal protrusion of the stomach or other abdominal organs through the esophageal hiatus of the diaphragm into the thoracic cavity.Normally, the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) lies below the diaphragm and is supported by the phrenoesophageal membrane, the diaphragmatic crura, and connective tissues. Weakening of these structures—due to aging, congenital defects like a short esophagus, or increased intra-abdominal pressure from coughing, obesity, pregnancy, or heavy...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 19, 2026

An Ivor Lewis Esophagectomy Designed to Minimize Anastomotic Complications and Optimize Conduit Function
09:40

An Ivor Lewis Esophagectomy Designed to Minimize Anastomotic Complications and Optimize Conduit Function

Published on: April 17, 2020

Altered lower esophageal sphincter function during early pregnancy.

R S Fisher, G S Roberts, C J Grabowski

    Gastroenterology
    |June 1, 1978
    PubMed
    Summary

    Early pregnancy maintains normal basal lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure but reduces LES responses to stimuli. This altered LES function occurs despite normal gastrin levels, suggesting hormonal influences during pregnancy.

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    Last Updated: Jun 19, 2026

    An Ivor Lewis Esophagectomy Designed to Minimize Anastomotic Complications and Optimize Conduit Function
    09:40

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    Published on: April 17, 2020

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    06:46

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    Published on: December 14, 2020

    Robotic Myotomy and Partial Fundoplication for Achalasia
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    Robotic Myotomy and Partial Fundoplication for Achalasia

    Published on: August 11, 2023

    Area of Science:

    • Gastroenterology
    • Obstetrics and Gynecology
    • Physiology

    Background:

    • The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) prevents gastroesophageal reflux.
    • Pregnancy involves significant hormonal changes that may affect gastrointestinal function.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate lower esophageal sphincter (LES) function during early pregnancy.
    • To determine if basal LES pressure and LES responses to stimulation are altered in early pregnancy.

    Main Methods:

    • Studied 8 pregnant women before and after abortion to assess resting LES pressures.
    • Evaluated LES pressure responses to pentagastrin, edrophonium, methacholine, and a protein meal.
    • Measured serum concentrations of estrogen, progesterone, and gastrin.

    Main Results:

    • Resting LES pressures were within normal limits both before and after abortion.
    • LES pressure responses to pentagastrin, edrophonium, methacholine, and a protein meal were significantly reduced during early pregnancy.
    • Elevated serum estrogen and progesterone levels were observed, while gastrin levels remained unchanged.

    Conclusions:

    • Basal LES pressure is normal in early pregnancy.
    • Despite normal basal pressure, LES responses to hormonal, pharmacological, and physiological stimuli are diminished in early pregnancy.
    • Altered LES function can be demonstrated in early pregnancy even without clinical symptoms of reflux.