C Gill1, M D Morrison. 1. Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of stimulation of the distal esophagus upon tension in the thyroarytenoid muscles. METHOD: Stimulation of the distal esophagus of six anaesthetized female pigs by means of balloon dilatation and acid infusion was performed. Response was measured with electromyography of the thyroarytenoid muscles. RESULTS: Acid infusion into the distal esophagus showed a statistically significant response in the thyroaytenoid muscles. Response to balloon dilatation was marked but not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: Stimulation of the distal esophagus during episodes of gastroesophageal reflux may play a causative role in producing some of the symptoms that otolaryngologists treat on a daily basis.
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of stimulation of the distal esophagus upon tension in the thyroarytenoid muscles. METHOD: Stimulation of the distal esophagus of six anaesthetized female pigs by means of balloon dilatation and acid infusion was performed. Response was measured with electromyography of the thyroarytenoid muscles. RESULTS: Acid infusion into the distal esophagus showed a statistically significant response in the thyroaytenoid muscles. Response to balloon dilatation was marked but not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: Stimulation of the distal esophagus during episodes of gastroesophageal reflux may play a causative role in producing some of the symptoms that otolaryngologists treat on a daily basis.