Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 7, 2026

Surgical Models of Gastroesophageal Reflux with Mice
05:19

Surgical Models of Gastroesophageal Reflux with Mice

Published on: August 25, 2015

Mechanisms of gastroesophageal reflux in children

S L Werlin, W J Dodds, W J Hogan

    The Journal of Pediatrics
    |August 1, 1980
    PubMed

    Insights

    Gastroesophageal reflux in children is often linked to transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxation or increased abdominal pressure, not consistently low basal pressure. This study analyzed sphincter function in pediatric reflux cases.

    Area of Science:

    • Pediatric Gastroenterology
    • Gastrointestinal Physiology

    Background:

    • Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is common in children.
    • The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) plays a crucial role in preventing reflux.
    • Understanding LES pressure dynamics is key to managing pediatric GER.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the pressure characteristics of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) in children with suspected or confirmed gastroesophageal reflux (GER).
    • To correlate LES pressure variations with reflux events in a pediatric cohort.

    Main Methods:

    • Utilized a sleeve sensor and micro pH electrode for esophageal monitoring in 29 children.
    • Measured lower esophageal sphincter pressure over a ten-minute period for each participant.
    • Analyzed the relationship between LES pressure, intra-abdominal pressure, and transient LES relaxations during reflux events.

    Main Results:

    • The mean lower esophageal sphincter pressure was 19 +/- 13 mm Hg, showing significant temporal variation.
    • Gastroesophageal reflux was rarely associated with persistently low basal LES pressure (< 5 mm Hg).
    • Reflux events were frequently linked to increased intra-abdominal pressure or transient, inappropriate LES relaxations.

    Conclusions:

    • Basal lower esophageal sphincter pressure alone is an infrequent indicator of gastroesophageal reflux in children.
    • Transient inappropriate LES relaxations and increased intra-abdominal pressure are more commonly associated with GER episodes in pediatric patients.
    • Further research into LES dynamics can improve the diagnosis and management of pediatric GER.

    More Related Videos

    Simultaneous Laryngopharyngeal and Conventional Esophageal pH Monitoring06:46

    Simultaneous Laryngopharyngeal and Conventional Esophageal pH Monitoring

    Published on: December 14, 2020

    Robotic Myotomy and Partial Fundoplication for Achalasia11:19

    Robotic Myotomy and Partial Fundoplication for Achalasia

    Published on: August 11, 2023

    Related Concept Videos

    Physiology of the Gastrointestinal System I: Ingestion and Propulsion01:22

    Physiology of the Gastrointestinal System I: Ingestion and Propulsion

    The physiology of the gastrointestinal system begins with ingestion as food enters the mouth.
    Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease I: Meaning and Pathophysiology01:29

    Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease I: Meaning and Pathophysiology

    Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) involves the recurrent backflow of the stomach or duodenal contents into the esophagus, leading to troublesome symptoms and potential esophageal mucosal damage. Although GERD is often referred to as a disease, it is more accurately described as a syndrome, as it encompasses a range of symptoms and complications rather than a singular pathological entity, impacting a large number of individuals as the most prevalent upper gastrointestinal problem. Roughly...
    Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease II: Clinical Features and Management01:29

    Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease II: Clinical Features and Management

    Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a persistent medical condition that affects many individuals worldwide. Its clinical manifestations can vary greatly, making diagnosis and management challenging for healthcare professionals. The following is a comprehensive overview of the clinical manifestations, assessment, and management strategies for GERD.
    Clinical Manifestations
    GERD presents itself in a multitude of ways, with symptoms varying from person to person. The hallmark symptoms are...
    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...