title: Radiologic evaluation of the esophagus: methods and value in motility disorders and GERD.
abstract: The barium esophagram is an essential component in the workup of a patient with dysphagia and gastroesophageal reflux disease, especially when considering antireflux surgery or after such surgery. The examination requires a flexible approach with an emphasis on the motility portion of the examination. When properly performed, the examination should identify the following: normal or impaired esophageal emptying; normal or abnormal motility; the presence and type of hiatal hernia; the presence of a distal stricture or mucosal ring; and in many instances, the presence of gastroesophageal reflux. In patients after antireflux surgery, the examination should identify the following: normal of impaired esophageal emptying; normal or abnormal motility; the location, tightness, and length of the fundoplication; the presence of a recurrent hernia; and the presence of gastroesophageal reflux.
authors.affiliation: Department of Radiology, Center for Swallowing and Esophageal Disorders, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
authors.forename: M E
authors.initials: ME
authors.lastname: Baker
authors.forename: T W
authors.initials: TW
authors.lastname: Rice
mesh_terms: D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology; D001464:Barium; D015154:Esophageal Motility Disorders / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis; D004947:Esophagus / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000503:physiopathology*; D005764:Gastroesophageal Reflux / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis; D006801:Humans; D011859:Radiography; D013679:Technology, Radiologic
chemical_list: D001464:Barium