Understanding Esophago-Pharyngeal Acid Regurgitation
Author Information
Author(s): Michal Marcin Szczesniak, Rohan Benjamin Williams, Ian James Cook
Primary Institution: University of New South Wales and St George Hospital
Hypothesis
The predominant mechanism of esophago-pharyngeal regurgitation is a transient non-swallow related UES relaxation.
Conclusion
Active UES relaxation is necessary for esophago-pharyngeal acid regurgitation to occur, primarily through transient, non-swallow related relaxations.
Supporting Evidence
- All recorded regurgitation events occurred in the upright posture.
- 91% of regurgitation events occurred within 3 hours after eating.
- Transient UES relaxation was the predominant mechanism in 91% of regurgitation events.
Takeaway
This study found that for people to regurgitate acid from their stomach into their throat, their throat muscles need to relax in a specific way, especially after eating.
Methodology
The study involved 11 patients monitored for esophago-pharyngeal acid regurgitation using manometry and dual pH recordings.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the limited sample size and the nature of the study design.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and challenges in recording LES motor events due to the fixed distance between sensors.
Participant Demographics
6 males, mean age 54 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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