Reflux Laryngitis and Related Disorders, Fourth Edition, provides a practical overview of reflux laryngitis and other manifestations of laryngopharyngeal reflux. It is designed for use by otolaryngologists, primary care physicians, internists, gastroenterologists, general surgeons, speech-language pathologists, voice teachers, and patients. Since the first edition was published, there has been a great deal of interest in laryngopharyngeal reflux. Research has revealed new information; diagnostic and treatment paradigms have changed; and new medical and surgical therapies have been developed. This latest edition highlights these new developments and cites many articles that were not referenced in the third edition. Chapter 1 introduces laryngopharyngeal reflux as a multisystem disorder and defines its importance in otolaryngologic and pulmonary conditions. Chapter 2 summarizes the complex structure and function of the human voice, laying the scientific groundwork necessary to understand the ways in which reflux can impair voice use.Chapter 3 defines esophageal structures and function, providing a comprehensive review of the mechanisms of swallowing and a concise discussion of the physiology of the lower esophageal sphincter.Chapter 4 reviews the symptoms associated with not only typical gastroesophageal reflux disease but also atypical (extraesophageal) reflux including laryngopharyngeal reflux complaints, and other symptoms such as chest pain. This chapter also reviews complications of reflux such as Barrett's esophagus and includes new information on diagnostic technology. Chapter 5 provides a comprehensive discussion of laryngopharyngeal reflux and the symptoms and signs associated with peptic mucositis of the larynx and related structures. This chapter also updates much of the literature on laryngopharyngeal reflux and stresses some particularly important reflux-related conditions such as laryngeal granuloma. Chapter 6 reviews the diagnostic tests available for patients with suspected reflux and the uses, strengths, and shortcomings of each procedure. It includes an extensive review of recent publications on this topic.Chapter 7 reviews the latest concepts in and literature on medical and behavioral management of reflux disease.Chapter 8 describes surgery for reflux, including an in-depth explanation of laparoscopic antireflux surgery as well as a discussion of endoscopic approaches to reflux management.
