Gastroesophageal reflux and gastric emptying.

There are major differences in gastroesophageal reflux between children and adults. Vomiting, failure to thrive, and respiratory symptoms are more common in children as is a spontaneous, complete resolution of symptoms over time. Abnormalities of gastric emptying are noted in both adults and children and may aggravate the reflux. Children have a better response than adults to surgery, both in the early and late postoperative period.