New techniques in measuring nonacidic esophageal reflux.

Abstract

New techniques in esophageal monitoring are allowing for better differentiation in the role of different gastric refluxates in esophageal mucosal damage and patient symptoms. The Bilitec 2001 (Synectics, Stockholm, Sweden) is a portable spectrophotometer that measures bilirubin as a surrogate marker for bile reflux and multichannel intraluminal impedance (MII) (Sandhill Scientific Inc, Highlands Ranch, CO) is a new technique allowing measurement of esophageal volume refluxate. Both techniques assess the role of nonacidic esophageal reflux. Despite their novel approach in assessing nonacid reflux, both methods have limitations. Future studies in this area, however, will prove beneficial in identifying their role in diagnosis and management of patients with suspected nonacid reflux disease.

• Authors: M F Vaezi, S S Shay
• Journal: Seminars in thoracic and cardiovascular surgery (Semin Thorac Cardiovasc Surg) Vol. 13 Issue 3 Pg. 255-64 (Jul 2001) ISSN: 1043-0679 [Print] United States
• PMID: 11568871 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)
• Copyright: Copyright 2001 by W.B. Saunders Company

Chemical References

• Pepsin A
• Bilirubin

Topics

• Animals
• Bilirubin (analysis)
• Duodenogastric Reflux (complications, diagnosis, surgery)
• Gastric Acid (physiology)
• Gastric Acidity Determination (instrumentation)
• Gastroesophageal Reflux (complications, diagnosis)
• Humans
• Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
• Monitoring, Physiologic
• Pepsin A (physiology)