Reflux Following Esophagectomy for Esophageal Cancer

Abstract

Gastroesophageal reflux is a common problem after gastroesophageal resection and re-construction, despite the routine prescription of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Resection of the lower esophageal sphincter and excision of the vagus nerve are generally thought to be the main factors that interfere with gastric motor function. However, physiological studies of reflux symptoms after esophagectomy are still lacking. Gastroesophageal reflux occurs frequently after esophagectomy, but there is no known effective method to pre-vent it. Therefore, in order to manage gastroesophageal reflux after esophagectomy, strict lifestyle modifications and gastric acid suppression treatment such as PPIs are needed, and further clinical studies are required.

Keywords

• esophageal neoplasms
• gastroesophageal reflux
• esophagectomy