Esophagus

ZENKER’S DIVERTICULUM is a pouch that forms in the back of the throat where food will get stuck.

GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) usually causes persistent severe heartburn, bad taste in the mouth and vomiting. However there does not need to be pain for there to be GERD. There can be other symptoms such as hoarse voice, coughing, asthma and pneumonia.  The symptoms can often be controlled with medication but this does not stop the GERD. Surgery can be performed for severe cases to stop the GERD.

PARAESOPHAGEAL HERNIAS are where the stomach has pushed up through a hole in the diaphragm and into the chest often causing heartburn, vomiting and problems breathing. It can only be closed with surgery where the stomach is returned to the abdomen and the hole in the diaphragm is repaired. Surgery is required for long term treatment

ACALASIA is a problem where the esophagus won’t open to let food pass into the stomach. There are some temporary treatments performed with endoscopy through the mouth to stretch open the esophagus or paralyze it with Botox injections. Surgery is required for long term treatment.