What Is the Significance of Surgeons Possessing a Thorough Understanding of Esophageal Function Tests?

Esophageal function tests (esophageal manometry and 24-hour pH monitoring) are essential to diagnose benign esophageal disorders such as gastroesophageal reflux disease and achalasia. Unfortunately, these tests are rarely taught during medical school or surgical training, so that surgeons who treat these diseases must rely on the interpretation and conclusions made by other physicians, mostly gastroenterologists, just reading the report without looking at the tracings themselves. Potentially, this approach may lead to poor outcomes or even malpractice.