Chevalier Jackson lecture. Esophagology: an update.

Because of the great interest in the problem of gastroesophageal reflux, much emphasis has been placed on factors which control the competence of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Much study has been devoted to the effect of hormones and drugs on the LES. Of the various diagnostic methods available, 24-hour pH testing seems to offer the most information regarding reflux and its complications. Medical therapy should be given a careful trial before surgical procedures for reflux are considered. Diagnostic esophagoscopy is usually performed with fiberoptic instruments. Open-tube esophagoscopes are still preferable for most types of endoscopy is usually performed with fiberoptic instruments. Open-tube esophagoscopes are still preferable for most types of endoscopic therapy. However, flexible fiberscopes may be used for injection of esophageal varices and for laser coagulation of bleeding lesions or even tumors. Guide wires may be introduced through flexible scopes to aid in the dilation of esophageal strictures and also to aid in the placement of prosthetic tubes in patients with obstructing cancers. The performance of esophagoscopy by practitioners of several disciplines has resulted in fragmentation of the specialty. Ideally, all esophagoscopists should be competent with both open-tube and fiberoptic scopes and should be familiar with all of the newer knowledge of the physiology and pharmacology of the esophagus and its sphincters.