Esophagus Physio

Question 1

What 6 events occur during the oropharyngeal phase of swallowing?

Answer 1

Elevation of the tongue, posterior movement of the tongue, elevation of the soft palate, elevation of the hyoid, elevation of the larynx, tilting of the epiglottis

Question 2

What are primary peristaltic contractions of the esophagus?

Answer 2

Progressive contractions (2 to 4 cm/s) that move down the esophagus and reach the LES after the initiation of swallowing (∼9 seconds)

Question 3

What are secondary peristaltic contractions of the esophagus?

Answer 3

Progressive contractions generated from distention/irritation of the esophagus or from an independent local reflex to clear the esophagus of material that was left behind after a primary peristaltic wave rather than voluntary swallowing

Question 4

What are tertiary contractions of the esophagus?

Answer 4

Uncoordinated contractions of smooth muscle that are nonprogressive, nonperistaltic, monophasic, or multiphasic simultaneous waves that can occur either after voluntary swallowing or spontaneously between swallows

Question 5

Normal upper esophageal sphincter pressure at rest:

Answer 5

50 to 70 mm Hg

Question 6

Normal upper esophageal sphincter pressure with food bolus:

Answer 6

12 to 14 mm Hg