The defects observed in the esophagus of the mutant may explain some of the clinical symptoms observed in humans, for example, recurrent vomiting, gastroesophageal reflux, and esophageal strictures. Taken together, our results provide evidence for the importance of Fibroblastic Growth Factor signaling in the growth and patterning of the esophagus, providing a possible scientific basis for the gastrointestinal tract clinical findings in craniosynostotic patients. Furthermore, the findings also provide a sound scientific rationale for any changes in the clinical management of gastrointestinal tract problems in patients with craniosynostotic defects.