Removal or destruction of abnormal tissue. Two types of ablation for Barrett's esophagus are radiofrequency ablation

A chemical made by the stomach to help digest food. Reflux of acid into the esophagus is a strong contributor to the development of Barrett’s esophagus. Medical therapy of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is geared towards suppressing the stomach’s ability to make acid. Adenocarcinoma

Physician specializing in providing safe and adequate levels of sedation or anesthesia during an endoscopic or surgical procedure.  Anti-reflux surgery

A precancerous condition of the esophageal lining caused by chronic acid reflux. A short segment is less than 3 cm in length, a long segment is 4 cm to 10 cm in length, and a very long segment is more than 10 cm in length. Read frequently asked questions about Barrett’s esophagus

A chemical made by the liver and excreted into the small intestine. Reflux of this chemical into the esophagus may play a role in causing Barrett’s esophagus by causing inflammation of the tissue. Biopsy

The large intestine, responsible for forming stool. Cryotherapy

An endoscopic technique to stretch out a narrowed esophagus. Dysphagia

Abnormal tissue cells, which are considered an immediate precursor to cancer cells. Two types are low-grade and high-grade. Endoscopy

An endoscopic exam in which ultrasound is used to examine all of the esophagus and surrounding tissue. This is performed in patients with dysplasia or early cancer before treatment. The exam is used to look for invasive disease and growth of the Barrett's esophagus into lymph nodes. Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR)

A surgical procedure that involves removing the patient's esophagus and top part of the stomach. A portion of the stomach is then pulled up into the chest and connected to the remaining portion of the esophagus. The patient then has a "new" esophagus. Learn more about esophagectomy