Esophageal Hiatal Hernia

Abstract

HERNIATION of abdominal contents into the thorax through the esophageal hiatus has been known to the medical profession for centuries; yet it remains a poorly understood phenomenon and controversy over its proper management persists. This controversy reflects changing concepts regarding the cause of symptoms resulting from esophageal hiatal hernia and different approaches toward their alleviation. It is becoming increasingly evident that correction of abnormal physiology as well as abnormal anatomy should be the prime goal of those responsible for the care of patients with symptomatic hiatal hernia.Definition and PrevalenceHiatal hernia, broadly defined, implies the protrusion of a portion . . .