Esophageal Medical Terms and Definitions
Achalasia:
Achalasia is characterized by an abnormal enlargement of the esophagus, peristalsis or the impairment of your ability to push food through your esophagus, and the failure of the lower esophageal sphincter to relax.
Acid Reflux:
Acid reflux is the abnormal backflow of stomach acids and juices into the esophagus.
Adenocarcinoma:
This is cancer that forms in the glandular cells. Glandular cells produce and release fluids such as mucous. Adenocarcinoma is generally found in the lower portion of the esophagus near the stomach.
Antacid:
Antacids neutralize stomach acids and relieve heartburn.
Barium swallow:
A barium swallow is a procedure where a patient is asked to drink a mixture of barium and water. The barium coats the esophagus and using a fluoroscopy attached to a video monitor, x-rays are taken of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum.
Barretts Esophagus:
Barrett's Esophagus occurs when abnormal growth of intestinal-like cells form in the lining of the esophagus.
Calcium Channel Blockers:
Calcium channel blockers help relax the muscles of the esophagus and stomach.
Chest X-ray:
A chest x-ray provides a picture of the organs contained within your chest.
CT Scan:
A CT (computed tomography) scan uses x-rays to create details images of internal organs. Also called a CAT (computerized axial tomography) scan.
Diffuse Esophageal Spasm:
Diffuse Esophageal Spasm (DES) causes your esophagus to spasm in an uncoordinated fashion that prevents food that is swallowed from reaching the stomach.
Duodenum:
The duodenum is the first part of your small intestines and connects to your stomach.
Endoscopy:
An endoscopy is a procedure by which your doctor uses a small, flexible tube called an endoscope, to view your esophagus, stomach and duodenum.
Esophageal Manometry:
An esophageal manometry involves passing a small tube or catheter through your nose or mouth and into the stomach. The tube is then slowly pulled back through the esophagus and pressure readings are taken at intervals along the esophagus.
Esophagectomy:
An esophagectomy is a procedure during which the affected or damaged areas of the esophagus are removed and the remaining, healthy portion of the esophagus is connected to the stomach.
Esophagus:
The esophagus is the muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach. The muscles of the esophagus contract to move food from your throat to your stomach.
Fluoroscopy:
Fluoroscopy uses a continuous stream of X-rays to evaluate structures and movement within the body.
Fundoplication:
Fundoplication surgery is the practice of wrapping the fundus, or upper curve of the stomach, around the esophagus and sewing it into place in order to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter.
GERD:
GERD stands for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and is caused by persistent acid reflux.
Heartburn:
Heartburn is an uncomfortable feeling or pain behind the breastbone.
Heller Myotomy:
A Heller Myotomy is a procedure in which the muscles of the lower esophageal sphincter are cut, allowing for food to pass more easily into the stomach.
Hiatal Hernia:
A hiatal hernia occurs when a hernia is formed in the abdomen that causes the stomach to bulge out of the abdomen and into the chest cavity.
Lower Esophageal Sphincter:
The lower esophageal sphincter is a muscle that forms a valve at the lower end of the esophagus where the esophagus meets the stomach.
Lymph nodes:
Lymph nodes are small glands that carry fluid, nutrients and waste material between the body tissues and the bloodstream.
Nitrates:
Nitrates help relax the muscles of the esophagus and stomach.
Nutcracker Esophagus:
Nutcracker Esophagus is a condition in which the muscles of your esophagus contract too powerfully.
Scleroderma:
Scleroderma is a chronic connective tissue disease, which causes the tightening or thickening of skin, blood vessels and damage to internal organs.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma:
Cancer that forms in the squamous cells. Squamous cells are thin, flat cells that line the esophagus. This form of cancer is generally found in the upper or middle esophagus, but can occur anywhere. This is sometimes referred to as epidermoid cancer.
Stomach acid/juice:
Stomach acids are the chemicals used to break down food in your stomach and includes hydrochloric acid and pepsin.
