Hospitals and clinics treating Barretts Oesophagus

Barrett's oesophagus is a condition which affects the lower oesophagus. In Barrett's oesophagus, the cells that line the affected area of gullet (oesophagus) become changed. The cells of the inner lining of a normal oesophagus are pink, flat cells (squamous cells). The cells of the inner lining of the area affected by Barrett's oesophagus are tall, red cells. Suffering from Acid reflux over a long period of time is often the cause of this disease, which is diagnosed with an endoscopy. The main symptom of the condition is Heartburn. Patients who have Barrett’s oesophagus have an increased risk of developing cancer of the oesophagus. Patients with Barrett’s oesophagus may be advised to have regular endoscopies to detect precancerous changes to the damaged cells. In the first instance, the condition may be treated with medication. If precancerous changes develop then treatment to remove or destroy the precancerous cells may be advised.