The esophagus, also referred to as the ?gullet? is a muscular tube that connects the throat or pharynx to the stomach. The length of the esophagus is approximately 8 inches. It is lined on the internal side by a moist membrane referred to as the mucus membrane. The esophagus is situated behind the windpipe or trachea and the heart. The esophagus enters the diaphragm just before it is connected to the stomach. At the top or upper part of the esophagus is situated the upper esophageal sphincter, which is a bundle of muscles that are under voluntary control. This upper esophageal sphincter is used while a person eats, breathes, belches and vomits. It is also responsible for preventing the passage of food and other secretion down the windpipe. At the lower end of the esophagus is situated the lower esophageal sphincter, which is also a bundle of muscles that are not controlled voluntarily. It prevents the passage of acid and other contents of the stomach from going back from the stomach into the esophagus.

Clear Liquid Diet

Phase I – Liquid Diet Guidelines after your operation

You will be on this phase for at least 2 weeks after your surgery. You will feel full from liquids and may not meet your fluid goals the first few days. During this phase you must consume liquid only and avoid all solid foods. Your primary source of energy and protein will be protein shakes.

How common is hiatal hernia?

The incidence of hiatal hernia increases with age and occurs in approximately 10% of the adult population. In patients undergoing upper gastrointestinal x-ray examination, with abdominal compression hiatus hernia was diagnosed in half of the patients undergoing the study. Approximately 95-99% of all hiatal hernias are type I (sliding) are either asymptomatic or cause symptoms of reflux that are treated by medicines.

Stage I – Post-Op and the Hospital Diet

At this time, Dr. Belsley and the hospital team will be monitoring your progress by seeing how well you tolerate low-sugar, non-carbonated liquids such as water, tea, and broth. Sugar-free gelatin is another option. Use a cup to drink and avoid sipping from a bottle or straw.

Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy

The esophagus is a relatively simple organ but it does have several locations where problems are more likely. The most problematic area is at the bottom (technically, in the lower thoracic section) where the esophagus connects with the stomach – the gastroesophageal junction. At the junction is the lower gastroesophageal sphincter, a hole into the stomach controlled by a set of muscles that opens to allow food to enter the stomach, and closes to prevent stomach acid from entering the esophagus. When this sphincter is not functioning properly, especially as a chronic long-term condition, there are many potential problems, some of which may lead to cancer.

Esophagus transversing diaphragmatic hiatus

Acid Reflux

Acid reflux occurs when stomach contents leak out into the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach. Common symptoms include heartburn, an unpleasant taste in the mouth and difficulty swallowing. Less commonly, throat pain, nausea, coughing and increased salivation may also be observed, and frequent reflux is associated with an increased risk of tooth decay due to acid erosion. Most people will experience occasional episodes of symptomatic acid reflux, and it is usually no cause for concern.

Sleeve

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is a restrictive procedure that reduces the size of the stomach but does not alter the gastrointestinal tract or the pylorus. Because the route of ingested food through the gastrointestinal tract is not altered, nutrients are better absorbed. The patient is less dependent on vitamin supplements as the food is absorbed in a more natural manner.