Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: Anatomy

Gastroesophageal reflux is the involuntary movement of gastric contents to the esophagus. It is a common disease, occurring in one third of the population in the United States. However, reflux is only considered a disease when it causes frequent or severe symptoms or when it produces injury. About 3–7% of the U.S. population suffers from frank esophageal reflux disease. Most reflux disease is not life threatening, as demonstrated by the relatively small number of patients (20%) who are admitted to hospitals with gastroesophageal reflux as the primary cause for admission. Common complications of reflux include esophagitis, esophageal strictures, and Barrett’s esophagus.