Hospital Virtual Tour

Lower esophageal ring - Treatment

Alternative Names

Esophagogastric ring; Schatzki's ring

Treatment:

Treatment involves stretching the ring by passing a device called a dilator through the area. Sometimes, a balloon is placed in the area and inflated, which helps widen the abnormal ring.

When dilation does not work, surgery may be need to cut away the abnormal tissue.

Any reflux issues, such as GERD, should be treated.

Expectations (prognosis):

Swallowing problems may return. Repeated treatments may be needed.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have swallowing problems or symptoms of GERD.

Schatzki ring - X-ray

Upper gastrointestinal system

Reviewed last on: 7/17/2008
Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Maish M. Esophagus.In: Townsend CM, Beauchamp RD, Evers BM, Mattox KL, eds. Sabiston Textbook of Surgery. 18th ed. St. Louis, Mo: WB Saunders; 2008:chap.41.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Home > Medical Reference > Encyclopedia (English)