The Esophagus

The esophagus is a dynamic conduit, which connects the oral cavity to the stomach. Esophageal secretions and antegrade peristalsis enable the passage of solids and liquids toward the stomach. Conversely, the esophagus enables prompt expulsion of gastrointestinal content during vomiting and passively with gastric reflux. The pediatric esophagus is subject to a number of congenital and acquired disorders. In this chapter, we review the embryology, applied anatomy, and diagnostic imaging appearances related to the normal pediatric esophagus and in infants and children with esophageal disease.