UT Southwestern Medical Center offers advanced therapies and procedures to effectively treat esophageal and swallowing diseases, including achalasia, acid reflux (gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD), Barrett’s esophagus and esophagitis.

Our specialists evaluate patients who have experienced symptoms such as chronic heartburn, acid indigestion or difficulty swallowing, as well as those who have already been diagnosed with an esophageal disease. After a complete examination, a UT Southwestern gastroenterologist may prescribe additional tests such as an upper gastrointestinal (upper GI) “barium swallow” or an endoscopy procedure, which allows a specialist to use a tiny camera to evaluate the esophagus.

If medication and lifestyle changes do not sufficiently control the condition, UT Southwestern’s specialists can perform endoscopic, open or minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery to correct the condition. By using only tiny incisions in the abdomen, laparoscopic surgery enables patients to reduce their hospital stay (one to three days) and more quickly return to normal activities. An endoscopic procedure may be used, for example, to strengthen an esophageal muscle that helps control acid reflux, or an open surgical procedure may be used to repair a hiatal hernia that is contributing to the condition.

Our comprehensive medical resources enable patients to have an initial consultation, testing, follow-up visits and any needed medical procedures done all in one location.

UT Southwestern Medical Center has a caring staff of medical professionals who are committed to enhancing patients’ quality of life, as well as meeting the needs of patients’ families. We can direct patients to a variety of informative and enriching support groups and other resources, which can be tailored to meet their specific needs.

Patients with swallowing diseases can also be treated by our ear, nose and throat (otolaryngology) service.