Long-Term Therapy for Reflux Esophagitis

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Abstract
In gastroesophageal reflux disease, a failure of the barrier function between the stomach and the esophagus allows an excessive reflux of gastric or duodenogastric contents. Reflux disease is often chronic and tends to relapse. Although the disease often does not progress, it does in some patients. In up to 20 percent of patients, complications ultimately develop, such as stricture or columnar metaplasia. Relapse often occurs because underlying motor abnormalities are not improved after a course of medical therapy. Current therapy is based on reducing the amount of the refluxed material and its potential to cause injury by suppressing acid secretion . . .