Abstract
Extrinsic compression of the distal esophagus by a rigid arteriosclerotic descending thoracic aorta was found to be associated with dysphagia and weight loss in 30 aged patients, predominantly women (2:1). Constant radiographic features included (a) ectasia of the descending portion of the aorta, (b) partial esophageal obstruction, (c) a smooth, flattened contour along the left lateral margin of the esophageal barium column, and (d) pulsatile movement of the barium bolus synchronous with aortic pulsation. Factors contributing to dysphagia included left ventricular enlargement and esophageal angulation due to the sequelae of senile kyphosis. This condition may exist independently or aggravate the effects of intrinsic esophageal motor incoordination in the aged.
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