Biomechanical effects of esophageal elongation on the circumferential tension of the cervical esophagus in vivo

Abstract

Physical or physiological esophageal elongation increases esophageal circumferential active or passive tension by a biomechanical process, which causes a decrease in esophageal circumferential elasticity. This increased stiffness of the esophageal wall likely promotes esophageal bolus flow during various esophageal functions.