Evaluation and Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux

摘要

Although esophageal hiatal hernia and gastroesophageal reflux often occur together, they can occur separately. Reflux of digestive juice into the esophagus is the physiologic malfunction which causes symptoms and complications, whereas hiatal hernia is an anatomic abnormality which itself rarely causes symptoms or complications. A standardized measurement of reflux is valuable in many clinical situations. Rational treatment for gastroesophageal reflux can be either medical or surgical. (Author)