The role of radionuclide methods in diagnostics of esophagus diseases. Part I

Two methods of esophageal scintigraphy are presented in this article: esophageal transit imaging and gastro-esophageal reflux examination. The procedures used and the most important indications for both examinations are discussed. It is concluded, that the both methods deserve attention and a wider application in the clinical routine, despite some limitations, resulting from the lacking standardization. They are non-invasive, connected with low radiation exposure, well tolerated, quick and easy to perform, reliable, and yield quantitative results. The above advantages make the both methods useful, especially for diagnosing gastro-esophageal reflux in pediatric patients. (author)