Applied Anatomy and Physiology of the Esophagus
Esophageal sphincters: role in food movement and prevention of reflux
A detailed overview of esophageal sphincters, their role in food movement, and implications for reflux prevention.
Applied Anatomy and Physiology of the Esophagus
Esophageal Sphincters: Role in Food Movement and Prevention of Reflux
The esophagus is a muscular tube that transports food from the mouth to the stomach. It is equipped with specialized sphincters that regulate passage and prevent reflux.
Upper Esophageal Sphincter (UES)
The UES, primarily composed of the cricopharyngeal muscle, prevents air entry into the esophagus during respiration and ensures food is directed into the esophagus during swallowing.
Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES)
The LES, a physiological sphincter at the gastroesophageal junction, prevents stomach contents from refluxing into the esophagus. Dysfunction can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Pathophysiology and Clinical Implications
- GERD: Occurs due to LES incompetence, leading to acid reflux.
- Achalasia: Impaired LES relaxation, resulting in difficulty swallowing.
- Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR): Reflux extending beyond the esophagus, affecting the throat and voice.
Understanding the anatomy and function of esophageal sphincters is essential for diagnosing and managing esophageal disorders.
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