Provider Variability in the Management Patterns of Increased Nonacid Reflux

Introduction Increased nonacid reflux is diagnosed in a subgroup of patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease who often present with reflux symptoms refractory to proton-pump inhibitor therapy. Despite the prevalence of this condition, the management approach for patients with increased nonacid reflux can often be varied and unclear. Aims Our primary aim was to investigate physician management patterns for patients who had received a diagnosis of increased nonacid reflux on impedance-pH studies. Methods Reflux studies in patients with increased nonacid reflux per Lyon Consensus criteria and management approaches were retrospectively reviewed. Reflux symptom survey, manometry findings, reflux symptom association (RSA) on reflux testing, immediate posttesting management information, and managing provider information were assessed. Results A total of 43 subjects in total were analyzed. Management plan after a diagnosis of increased nonacid reflux was decided by a gastroenterologist in over 95% of cases and varied greatly with no changes being the most common. Even among subjects with + RSA on reflux monitoring, no change in management was the most common action, although this occurred much less frequently compared to subjects with − RSA (28.6% vs. 78.6%, p