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Aspiration and gastroesophageal reflux.
Summary
Gastroesophageal reflux can cause chronic aspiration and respiratory issues. Surgical reflux control improved most symptoms, but had limited effect on asthma in this patient study.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pulmonology
- Esophageal Disorders
Background:
- Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is a primary esophageal cause of chronic aspiration.
- Aspiration can lead to significant respiratory complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the link between gastroesophageal reflux and aspiration.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of surgical reflux control in patients with respiratory symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Reviewed medical history of 1000 patients with reflux.
- Utilized barium esophagography, esophageal manometry, and pH studies.
- Performed chest roentgenography and pulmonary function tests for respiratory complications.
Main Results:
- 279 patients (27.9%) experienced aspiration due to reflux.
- 159 patients had associated respiratory symptoms including cough, voice change, recurrent infections, bronchiectasis, and asthma.
- Surgical correction of reflux in 120 patients improved cough, voice changes, recurrent infections, and bronchiectasis.
Conclusions:
- Gastroesophageal reflux is a significant cause of aspiration and related respiratory issues.
- Surgical management of reflux is effective for many respiratory symptoms, but less so for asthma.