MedicineAnatomyCardiologyCardiothoracic RadiologyGastroenterologyRadiographic AnatomyEsophageal DiseasesGastroesophageal Reflux DiseaseGastrointestinal DiseaseGastrointestinal ImagingGastrointestinal RadiologyBarium MealEsophageal AnatomyGastroesophageal Reflux PathophysiologyProne Positioning
In our studies of the gastro-intestinal tract during the last three years, we have noticed under the fluoroscope a reflux of the barium meal from the stomach into the esophagus. As a result of this observation we have attempted to investigate this type of case with particular reference to its possible etiology and symptomatology. At first it was observed fluoroscopically only, with the patient in the prone position. In studying our old plates we have found some with the lower portion of the esophageal wall outlined with barium. Presumably we have missed or paid no attention to it heretofore. But since our attention has been called to it, we have found this condition in a larger percentage of cases, now 4.6 per cent, and have succeeded in demonstrating it on plates. Roentgenologically, in normal cases the barium column is considerably narrowed at the epicardia, and there is a momentary delay