Relation of the Lower Esophageal Ring to the Esophagogastric Junction

Abstract

ALTHOUGH a ringlike indentation encircling the lower esophagus had been described by radiologists for several years^{1 , 2} it was not recognized as a cause of dysphagia until 1953.^{3 , 4} Since that time there has been considerable discussion in the literature about the nature of the lower esophageal ring. Most of the recent literature has emphasized the opinion that this structure represents the esophagogastric junction and, in fact, may well represent the only valid radiologic indication of this junction.^{5 , 6} Published histologic data appear to strengthen this point of view, in that esophageal mucosa is usually found proximal and gastric mucosa distal to the . . .