Endoscopic treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease

Abstract

Gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD is a condition in which stomach contents enter into the esophagus (called reflux) The most common reflux symptom are heartburn or regurgitation. Reflux may lead to damage to the lining of the esophagus. The usual cause of GERD is a weak or incompetent valve muscle at the bottom of the esophagus (lower esophageal sphincter) that normally prevents stomach contents from entering the esophagus. GERD can lead to complications including ulcers in the lining of the esophagus, bleeding, narrowing of the esophagus that can cause difficulty swallowing (a stricture) and a condition called Barrett’s esophagus, which has a risk of turning into cancer of the esophagus.