Another name for the gastroesophageal junction is the squamocolumnar junction or Z-line.
Understanding the Gastroesophageal Junction
The gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) is the anatomical location where the esophagus transitions into the stomach. It's a critical area because it marks the boundary between two different types of tissue and plays a vital role in preventing stomach acid from refluxing into the esophagus. Due to its clinical significance, there are several ways to identify and define it.
Endoscopic Definition
Endoscopically, the GEJ is most commonly identified as:
- Squamocolumnar Junction (Z-line): This is the visible line where the squamous epithelium of the esophagus meets the columnar epithelium of the stomach. The change in cell type appears as a distinct, often irregular, line.
- Proximal Extent of Gastric Mucosal Folds: The point where the folds of the gastric mucosa begin is another endoscopic landmark.
Surgical Definition
Surgically, the GEJ is identified by:
- Peritoneal Reflection on the Stomach: This is where the peritoneum (the membrane lining the abdominal cavity) reflects off the stomach.
- Junction of Tubular Esophagus and Stomach: This is the point where the tubular structure of the esophagus joins with the wider structure of the stomach.
In summary, while several landmarks help define the GEJ, the squamocolumnar junction (Z-line) is the most common alternative name, particularly in an endoscopic context.
