... wave by the same mechanism as, and through an innervation (Auerbach and Meissner plexus) similar to that which controls intestinal movements. The vagus also is directly concerned with the deglutitory act, for swallowing is impossible if both vagi are cut. Anything which unduly disturbs this reflex arc may serve as an exciting cause of spasmodic stenosis. Bolting of food, superficial erosions, local esophageal disease, or a small foreign body, may produce spasmodic stenosis. Spasm secondary to disease of the stomach, liver, gall bladder, appendix, ... — Bronchoscopy and Esophagoscopy - A Manual of Peroral Endoscopy and Laryngeal Surgery • Chevalier Jackson