ABSTRACT

This chapter focuses on the esophageal motility and its implications in swallowing. Achalasia is a rare esophageal motor disease caused by the absence of peristalsis in the esophagus and defective Lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxation. An unopposed excitation of the LES causes its dysfunction or failure to relax in response to swallowing. High-resolution manometry (HRM) and Clouse contour plots introduced in 2000 for the clinical evaluation of esophageal motility are utilized for esophageal pressure topography (EPT). HRM and high-resolution EPT can be used to predict successful therapy. The concept of HRM is to overcome the limitations of conventional manometric systems with advanced technologies. The esophagus is the conduit for food bolus passage from the mouth to the stomach. Oral Phase is mostly designed to prepare the food for its passage to the stomach. The main function of the pharyngeal phase is to ensure its passage into the esophagus safely and without spillage into the airways.