Swallowing and Esophageal Disorders
Our dedicated team provides care and treatment for patients with swallowing and esophageal disorders. Diseases that affect the gastrointestinal tract have a range of symptoms, some minor and resolving without treatment, others more severe and potentially chronic. From reflux to swallowing disorders or any conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach and upper small intestine (also known as foregut), our team aims to provide patients with a comprehensive care plan.
Our multidisciplinary approach to care for these disorders involves coordination of evaluations and treatment plans with gastroenterologists, radiologists, ear, nose and throat (ENT) physicians, and other specialists to ensure the highest quality of care and most effective treatment for our patients.
Signs of swallowing and esophageal disorders include:
- Chronic cough or hoarseness
- Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
- Chest pain (thought to be of esophageal origin)
- Heartburn (burning sensation in the chest)
Some of the swallowing and esophageal conditions we treat include:
- Esophageal motility disorders, including diffuse esophageal spasm (DES)
- Esophageal strictures including Schatzki’s rings.
- Eosinophilic esophagitis.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), including laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR)
- Barrett’s esophagus
- Hiatal hernias including paraesophageal hernias
- Achalasia
- Esophageal cancer
Swallowing disorders can occur at any age. They can be temporary or indicate a serious medical problem. There are many causes for swallowing problems including nerve and muscle problems, head and neck injuries, stroke or cancer.
Treatment
Early diagnosis and treatment are important in preventing long-term complications. Treatment includes drug therapy, esophageal dilation, reflux surgery and bariatric surgery. Minimally invasive surgical approaches are available for patients who require surgery for their condition. Our approaches include endoscopic, laparoscopic, and robotic surgical procedures that provide reduced scarring, quicker recovery and return to daily lifestyle.
