RESUMEN
Objective To investigate the effect of esophageal mucosal acid exposure on visceral sensation of patients with non-erosive gastroesophageal reflux disease (NERD) and to evaluate the role of visceral hypersensitivity in NERD pathogenesis. Methods We recruited 21 NERD patients and 10 normal healthy volunteers. Mechanical distentions stimulation and acid perfusion through esophagus were performed using the balloon-affixed and polyvinyl multilumen catheter. Esophageal visceral perception thresholds were examined before and after acid perfusion with esophageal balloon distention by means of a computer-controlled barostat. Results As compared with healthy subjects, NERD patients demonstrated significantly lower initial perception threshold and maximally tolerated pain threshold (P