Secondary esophageal peristalsis:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Secondary esophageal peristalsis is a reflex that occurs in response to distension or irritation of the esophagus, not initiated by swallowing, hence it does not involve the oral-pharyngeal phase or the activation of medullary swallowing centers. It does involve the relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter to allow the passage of the bolus or refluxed material back into the stomach. It occurs only in the smooth muscle portion of the esophagus, as the skeletal muscle portion (upper part) is involved in primary peristalsis initiated by swallowing.

Secondary Esophageal Peristalsis