Assessment of Normal Values of Esophagogastric Junction (EGJ) Distensibility in Healthy Volunteers

Assessment of Normal Values of Esophagogastric Junction (EGJ) Distensibility in Healthy Volunteers

To assess normal values of EGJ distensibility in healthy volunteers.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. No history of gastrointestinal disease, especially gastro-esophageal reflux disease
2. BMI = 18-30 kg/m²
3. Caucasian race
4. Subject signed the informed consent form and is able to adhere to study protocol

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Age < 18 years
2. Previous esophageal or gastric surgery
3. Co-morbidities (including cardiopulmonary disease, collagen diseases, obesity, coagulation disorders and co-morbidity hindering upper gastrointestinal endoscopy)
4. Patients using anticoagulants
5. Patients unable to give informed consent
6. Smoking
7. History of alcohol abuse or current excessive alcohol consumption (> 2 alcoholic beverages per day or > 14 alcoholic beverages per week)