MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Reflux board

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Reflux board

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Illustrations Definition	Information

Illustrations

Reflux board

Definition Return to top

A reflux board is a device prescribed for use in children who have gastroesophageal reflux. The board tilts the child upward, to prevent or reduce gastroesophageal reflux while the child is lying in bed .

Information Return to top

A reflux board is used to lift the child's head and shoulders above his stomach. It is uses gravity to reduce episodes of gastroesophageal reflux, in which stomach contents flow out of the stomach, back into the esophagus and mouth, and possibly into the lungs. The board is not often used these days, because recent advances in both medical treatment and less invasive surgeries (using scopes) have largely replaced it.

Update Date: 5/15/2006

Updated by: Benjamin W. Van Voorhees, MD, MPH, Assistant Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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