Swallowing disorders after esophageal atresia evaluated with videomanometry.

BACKGROUND

Patients with repaired esophageal atresia often show persistent motility disorders of the esophagus.

METHODS

In this study, the authors used a newly developed method, videomanometry, to study intraluminal pressures and function of the pharynx and upper esophagus in such a group of patients and compared the results with those in healthy age-matched controls.

RESULTS

A significant difference was found between timing of the pharynx contraction and upper esophageal sphincter (UES) relaxation, indicating a dyscoordination of swallowing in the patient group. Transit time of bolus from the pharynx to the esophagus was also shorter for the patient group. Such dyscoordination may be a risk factor that can cause aspiration and respiratory symptoms.

CONCLUSION

UES resting pressure and residual pressure on swallowing, did not differ between the two groups.