Ashraf Rasheed
MB ChB FRCS (Gen Surg)

 

What are the complications of GORD?

Stricture
This represents one of the end-stages of GORD and classically presents with dysphagia after a long history of heartburn and regurgitation.

Barrett’s Oesophagus



Barrett’s oesophagus is defined as the presence of columnar lined mucosa in the lower oesophagus (abnormal lining). Barrett’s represents the extreme end of GORD characterised by sphincter hypotension, oesophageal peristaltic failure, upright and supine acid reflux. Barrett’s oesophagus is an insensitive oesophagus and patients may not present until they develop a stricture, an oesophageal ulcer, or even a malignant tumour. The above photograph shows a removed oesophagus with in a patient with Barrett’s (the Salmon pink areas in the upper part of the specimen). Note the cancer (the polypoid area).