Phrenic ampulla

Last revised by Henry Knipe on 1 Jun 2020

The phrenic ampulla (also known as the oesophageal vestibule) is the region between the A-ring and B-ring of the distal oesophagus. The gastro-oesophageal junction is below the ampulla (and gastric folds should not enter the region of the ampulla).

Differential diagnosis

The ampulla is more prominent in some patients than in others, but it is a normal finding and should not be confused with a sliding hiatal hernia or an oesophageal web.

Cases and figures

  • Case 1: phrenic ampulla, single contrast
  • Case 1: phrenic ampulla, double contrast
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