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Endoscopic ablation of Barrett’s esophagus

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Abstract

Barrett’s esophagus is a premalignant lesion of the esophagus that arises as an abnormal tissue response to epithelial injury from gastroesophageal reflux. Barrett’s esophagus has previously been considered an irreversible lesion that required life-long surveillance to prevent malignant transformation. Recently, combination therapy with pharmacologic or surgical control of acid reflux combined with endoscopic delivery of a mucosal injury appears to have the capability of reversing superficial Barrett’s tissue, and perhaps deeper tissue as well. Whether Barrett’s esophagus is cured and cancer/dysplasia prevented by these techniques will require long-term follow-up of these patients.

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Fennerty, M.B. Endoscopic ablation of Barrett’s esophagus. Curr Gastroenterol Rep 1, 210–213 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11894-999-0036-0

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