Esophagus Flashcards
Where does the esophagus begin?
At the lower border of cricoid cartilage(c6)
What is the cell lining of the esophagus?
Stratified squamous epithelium
What is Barret’s esophagus?
It is columnar metaplasia with increased risk of developing adenocarcinoma.
What is esophageal achalasia?
It is an esophageal motility disorder involving the smooth muscle layer of the esophagus and the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). It is characterized by incomplete LES relaxation, increased LES tone, and lack of peristalsis of the esophagus.
What is the microscopic picture of achalasia?
It is hypertrophied musculature with the absence of myenteric plexus.
What makes an indent on the esophagus?
- The esophagus is indented by the following structures:
- Left bronchus
- Aortic arch
- Left atrium
What are the complications of a perforated esophagus?
- Mediastinitis
- Pneumothorax
- Pleural effusion
- Empyema (pus collection in pleural space)
- Peritonitis
- Fistula formation
What are the constrictions of the Esophagus
- Cricoid cartilage
- Arch of the Aorta
- Left principal bronchus
- Diaphragmatic hiatus
Arterial supply of oesophagus?
Upper third - Inferior thyroid artery
Mid third - Aortic branches
Lower third - Left gastric artery
Venous supply of oesophagus?
Upper third - Inferior thyroid vein
Middle third - Azygos branches
Lower third - Left gastric vein
Lymphatic drainage of oesophagus?
Upper third - Deep cervical
Mid third - Mediastinal
Lower third - Gastric
Type of muscle oesophagus?
Upper third - Striated muscle
Mid third - Smooth & striated muscle
Lower third - Smooth muscle
