Painful and transient spasm of the cardioesophageal sphincter
Tavernier, C.; Divry, P.; Delfolie, A.; Regimbau, V.
Journal de Radiologie d'Electrologie et de Medecine Nucleaire 58(4): 261-268
1977
ISSN/ISBN: 0368-3966 PMID: 859133 Document Number: 117462
The writers describe a painful and transient spasm of the lower esophageal sphincter. Clinically, it is a matter of total aphagia, which is painful and prolonged, and occurs during eating; it always responds to medical treatment (rehydratation and antispasmodics), and it does not exceed 48 hours. An X-ray examination is both essential and characteristic: it visualizes the spasm of the lower esophageal sphincter in its full extent, the food gap, the sideration of the thoracic esophagus, and the disappearance of the air pocket. A perfect understanding of these clinical and and radiological signs enables a recognition of the functional nature of this medically curable condition, and thus aids patients of all ages to avoid an unecessary surgical operation.