Gastroesophageal reflux - grading on barium study
In 1977, a grading system of gastroesophageal reflux on barium study was devised. It is based on the extent of retrograde flow of barium.
| Grade | Description |
|---|---|
| I | reflux into distal esophagus only |
| II | reflux extending above carina |
| III | reflux into cervical esophagus |
| IV | free persistent reflux into cervical esopagus with a wide open cardia (chalasia) |
| V | reflux of barium with aspiration into the trachea or lungs |
| D | delayed reflux - barium is seen in esophagus on delayed films |
References:
1. McCauley RG, Darling DB, Leonidas JC, Schwartz AM. Gastroesophageal reflux in infants and children: a useful classification and reliable physiologic technique for its demonstration. American Journal of Roentgenology 1978;130(1), 47-50.
Updated 9/11/2013 23:28 by Lambert