[Imaging of the esophagus. Normal and pathologic aspects].

Although endoscopy is the fundamental examination for exploration of the esophagus, imaging study (CT scan, barium swallow) retains numerous indications. It completes the endoscopic study in the assessment of space-occupying lesions and investigates functional disorders of the oesophagus. Barium swallow associated with the administration of glucagon has a therapeutic role in food obstruction. Endoscopic ultrasonography allows direct evaluation of the local extension of oesophageal masses. Percutaneous ultrasonography sometimes facilitates the study of the lower oesophagus in children and the cervical oesophagus.