[Reflux esophagitis (author's transl)].

The term "Refluxdisease" consider an esophageal response (either subjective or objective) to injury caused by gastrointestinal contents. Thickening of the basal layer of the esophageal mucosa, reflux esophagitis, endobrachyesophagus, acquired short esophagus and peptic stenosis are different stages of the objective esophageal response. The diagnosis of reflux disease must take account of these findings where appropriated. The various stages of reflux disease can only by recognized and adequately treated following an exact diagnosis that takes into account as may parameters as possible. For this reason fundoplication, which is at present the most effective procedure, should only be performed when the indications are particularly strong.