PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

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What is the imaging finding associated with esophageal spasm?

  1. Corkscrew esophagus

  2. Strictures

  3. Gastric outlet obstruction

  4. Hiatal hernia

The correct answer is: Corkscrew esophagus

The imaging finding associated with esophageal spasm is characterized by the "corkscrew esophagus." This term describes the distinctive motility pattern seen in patients with esophageal spasm, where contractions occur in a chaotic manner that can lead to a twisting or corkscrew appearance of the esophagus on imaging studies, particularly on barium swallow radiographs. This pattern results from repetitive, simultaneous contractions rather than the normal peristaltic wave, which can cause chest pain and dysphagia in affected individuals. Recognizing this hallmark finding is essential for healthcare providers in diagnosing and managing esophageal motility disorders effectively. In contrast, strictures represent narrowed areas in the esophagus often due to chronic inflammation or injury, gastric outlet obstruction pertains to problems in the stomach's ability to empty contents into the duodenum, and hiatal hernia refers to the displacement of part of the stomach through the diaphragm into the thoracic cavity. These conditions do not specifically describe the pattern of contractions associated with esophageal spasm.