The surgical management of Barrett's esophagus

Barrett's esophagus is an increasing health concern in most Western countries. The diagnosis is usually made during investigation of patients with symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease. The appropriate antireflux procedure, performed in properly selected patients, provides long-term symptomatic relief in 80% to 90% of patients. The effect of reliable and complete control of gastroesophageal reflux on the natural history of Barrett's metaplasia once it has developed and on its prevention in symptomatic patients who have not yet developed Barrett's changes is one of the most important areas of study over the next decade.