investigations
Last reviewed 08/2021
Diagnosis is usually based on the clinical presentation.
Investigations used for GORD include:
- barium contrast radiography - can be used to evaluate the presence of anatomical abnormalities of the gastrointestinal tract. E.g. - esophageal stricture, pyloric stenosis, intestinal malrotation, tracheoesophageal fistula, hiatal hernia
- pH studies, which monitor the pH in the lower oesophagus and can thus demostrate the amount of reflux the frequency and duration of reflux (1)
- upper GI endoscopy and biopsy – can evaluate the oesophageal mucosa for features associated with GORD (esophagitis, erosions, exudate, ulcers, strictures)
- radioisotope studies may be valuable in identifying the severity of the reflux and establishing the presence of aspiration (1).
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