Lower esophageal ring (Schatzki)

Alternative names:

esophagogastric ring; Schatzki's ring

Treatment:

Usually, thorough chewing of food resolves the swallowing difficulty. An alternative treatment consists of dilating the ring by passing an endoscope or dilator through the ring. Surgical cutting (excision) of the ring may be necessary if dilation is unsuccessful.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome is usually good with treatment.

Complications:

There are usually no complications except for the noted swallowing difficulty and chest pain.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of this disorder develop (to rule out other causes of the symptoms and to determine the best treatment for you).