Management of Barrett's oesophagus

Barrett's oesophagus, which is thought to be a consequence of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), is a well-recognized precursor of oesophageal adenocarcinoma. Medical therapies and anti-reflux surgeries for GORD have shown conflicting results regarding the progression of Barrett's metaplasia to neoplasia. After high-grade dysplasia or intramucosal cancer is identified, it has been standard practice to conduct an oesophagectomy, despite this having an associated risk of morbidity and mortality. In recent years however, endoscopic therapy has become a viable alternative to oesophagectomy in treating early neoplasia.