Esophagus Motor Function

Question 1

Main function of esophagus

Answer 1

Transport food from mouth to stomach

Question 2

What does esophagus prevent?

Answer 2

Retrograde movement of esophagi or gastric contents

Question 3

What is the structure of esophagus?

Answer 3

Hollow tube 25-30cm
Closed at both ends by upper and lower esophageal sphincter

Question 4

Describe the upper esophageal sphincter

Answer 4

Skeletal muscle
Controlled by swallowing center

Question 5

Describe the lower esophageal sphincter

Answer 5

Cardiac sphincter
Modulated by swallowing center

Question 6

What is the complication with the esophagus?

Answer 6

The trachea = opening up into the larynx lies next to esophagus

Esophagus and laryn open into pharyn

Epiglottis = flap that separates larynx from pharynx
Preventing food entering windpipe

Question 7

What damages esophageal epithelium and how is the epithelium protected?

Answer 7

Gastric contents damage it

Tonic contraction of upper and lower esophageal sphincter prevent reflux
Except vomiting or belching

Question 8

How is lower esophageal sphincter tone increased?

Answer 8

Increase = cholinergic agonist, alpha-adrenergic agonist, gastrin, substance P

Question 9

How is lower esophageal sphincter tone decreased?

Answer 9

Decrease = beta-adrenergic agonist, dopamine, CCK
Nicotine, tea, coffe, cola