The Mayo Clinic presents an easy-to-understand animation for consumers about the pathophysiology behind acid reflux.

The video begins with a brief layout of the upper gastrointestinal anatomy, identifying the esophagus, the stomach, and the diaphragm. The video also points to the lower esophageal sphincter, but does not refer to it by name. There is a simple description of the digestive process, followed by a depiction of reflux showing gastric content sloshing back through the esophagus. Two principal reasons for pathologic acid reflux (GERD) are provided, including incompetence of the lower esophageal sphincter and diaphragmatic weakness. The animation also provides a great visual tool for the layperson to better understand the mechanism behind hiatal hernias.

The video ends with an advertisement for the Mayo Clinic, which is well-deserved, as they were the creative forces behind this excellent video for potential patients with GERD.