What is the esophagus?

WebMD's Esophagus Anatomy Page provides a detailed picture and definition of the esophagus. Learn about its function and location and about conditions that affect the esophagus. read more

Esophageal stricture: A narrowing of the esophagus. Chronic irritation from reflux is the usual cause of esophageal strictures. Achalasia: A rare disease in which the lower esophageal sphincter does not relax properly. read more

The esophagus (American English) or oesophagus (British English) (/ ɪ ˈ s ɒ f ə ɡ ə s /), commonly known as the food pipe or gullet (gut), is an organ in vertebrates through which food passes, aided by peristaltic contractions, from the pharynx to the stomach. read more

How the esophagus works. To understand esophagus cancer, it helps to know about the normal structure and function of the esophagus. The esophagus is a hollow, muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach. It lies behind the trachea (windpipe) and in front of the spine. read more