Historical perspectives on the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease

Gastrointest Endosc Clin N Am. 2003 Jan;13(1):19-55, vii-viii. doi: 10.1016/s1052-5157(02)00104-6.

Abstract

The current vogue in the historical evolution of the management of the problem of reflux is represented by augmentation procedures for the lower esophageal sphincter. Rather than employ a transperitoneal approach, these are directed at the sphincter by the transesophageal route and include stitching, collagen injection and radio-frequency-induced fibrosis. It is however probable that these techniques will suffer all the drawbacks of any mechanical intervention but somewhat decrease the morbidity of open, albeit minimally invasive surgery. Similarly, a specific pharmacotherapeutic probe targeting the lower esophageal sphincter, while long fantasized, remains to be identified.

Publication types

  • Historical Article
  • Portrait

MeSH terms

  • Gastroesophageal Reflux / history*
  • Gastroscopes / history
  • Gastroscopy / history*
  • General Surgery / history
  • History, 16th Century
  • History, 17th Century
  • History, 18th Century
  • History, 19th Century
  • History, 20th Century
  • Humans
  • Photography