EndoFLIP in the Esophagus: Assessing Sphincter Function, Wall Stiffness, and Motility to Guide Treatment

Gastroenterol Clin North Am. 2020 Sep;49(3):427-435. doi: 10.1016/j.gtc.2020.04.002. Epub 2020 Jun 14.

Abstract

The functional luminal imaging probe (FLIP) uses high-resolution planimetry to provide a three-dimensional image of the esophageal lumen by measuring diameter, volume, and pressure changes. Literature surrounding use of FLIP has demonstrated its clinical utility as a diagnostic tool and as a device to guide and measure response to therapy. FLIP can assess and guide treatments for esophageal disease states including gastroesophageal reflux disease, achalasia, and eosinophilic esophagitis. FLIP may become the initial test for patients with undifferentiated dysphagia at their index endoscopy. This article summarizes use of FLIP in assessing sphincter function, wall stiffness, and motility to guide treatments.

Keywords: Achalasia; Dysphagia; EndoFLIP; FLIP; Gastroesophageal reflux; Impedance.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Diagnostic Imaging / methods*
  • Diagnostic Techniques, Digestive System*
  • Elasticity*
  • Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal
  • Eosinophilic Esophagitis / diagnosis*
  • Eosinophilic Esophagitis / physiopathology
  • Eosinophilic Esophagitis / therapy
  • Esophageal Achalasia / diagnosis*
  • Esophageal Achalasia / physiopathology
  • Esophageal Achalasia / therapy
  • Esophageal Sphincter, Lower / physiopathology*
  • Esophagogastric Junction / physiopathology*
  • Esophagus / pathology
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux / diagnosis*
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux / physiopathology
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux / therapy
  • Gastrointestinal Motility*