A study of pathophysiological factors associated with gastro-esophageal reflux disease in twins discordant for gastro-esophageal reflux symptoms.

Background: Differences in lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and peristaltic function and in transient LES relaxations (TLESR) have been described in patients with gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, some of these differences may be the result of chronic GERD rather than being an underlying contributory factor.

Methods: Twins discordant for GERD symptoms, i.

The effects of obesity on oesophageal function, acid exposure and the symptoms of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease.

Background: Obese patients have an increased risk of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease; however, the mechanism underlying this association is uncertain.

Aim: To test the hypothesis that mechanical effects of obesity on oesophageal function increase acid exposure and symptoms.

Methods: Height, weight and waist circumference (WC) were measured in patients with typical reflux symptoms referred for manometry and 24 h ambulatory pH studies.

Patient acceptance and clinical impact of Bravo monitoring in patients with previous failed catheter-based studies.

Background: Standard pH monitoring is performed over 24 h with a naso-oesophageal catheter (C-pH). Limitations include naso-pharyngeal discomfort, nausea and social embarrassment resulting in reduced reflux-provoking activities. Recently a catheter-free pH-monitoring technique has become available.

Effects of age on the gastroesophageal junction, esophageal motility, and reflux disease.

Background & Aims: The prevalence of complicated gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) increases with age; however, the mechanism by which this occurs is uncertain. This study assessed (1) whether physiologic degradation of the gastroesophageal junction and esophageal motility occurs with aging, and (2) whether these effects are associated with increased esophageal acid exposure and reflux symptoms in the elderly.

Methods: Retrospective study of 1307 patients referred for investigations of reflux symptoms (median age, 49 years; range, 15-92 years) was conducted.

Determinants of Abnormal Supine Reflux in 24-Hour pH Recordings.

A previous study showed that supine gastroesophageal reflux occurs mainly in the early nighttime period and is greater if the patient retires within 2 hr of a meal. We analyzed 306 consecutive esophageal pH studies between January and July 2003. Ninety-two patients had abnormal supine reflux.