Long-term Outcomes of Patients With Normal or Minor Motor Function Abnormalities Detected by High-resolution Esophageal Manometry

A practical approach to ineffective esophageal motility

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) is the most frequently diagnosed esophageal motility abnormality and characterized by diminished esophageal peristaltic vigor and frequent weak, absent, and/or fragmented peristalsis on high-resolution esophageal manometry. Despite its commonplace occurrence, this condition can often provoke uncertainty for both patients and clinicians. Although the diagnostic criteria used to define this condition has generally become more stringent over time, it is unclear whether the updated criteria result in a more precise clinical diagnosis. While IEM is often implicated with symptoms of dysphagia and gastroesophageal reflux disease, the strength of these associations remains unclear. In this review, we share a practical approach to IEM highlighting its definition and evolution over time, commonly associated clinical symptoms, and important management and treatment considerations. We also share the significance of this condition in patients undergoing evaluation for anti-reflux surgery and consideration for lung transplantation.

Fifteen-year symptomatic outcome of patients with nonactionable motor findings on high-resolution manometry

BACKGROUND

High-resolution manometry (HRM) is performed for evaluation of esophageal symptoms, but patient outcome is unclear when no actionable motor disorder is identified. We evaluated long-term symptomatic outcome of patients with nonactionable HRM findings.

METHODS

Patients who underwent (HRM) studies in 2006-2008 were tracked. Patients with achalasia spectrum disorders, foregut surgery before or after HRM, and incomplete symptom documentation were excluded. Symptom questionnaires assessing dominant symptom intensity (DSI, product of symptom severity and frequency recorded on 5-point Likert scales) and global symptom severity (GSS, from 10 cm visual analog scale) were repeated. Change in symptom burden was compared against HRM motor findings using Chicago Classification 4.0 (CCv4.0), applied retroactively to 2006-2008 data.

KEY RESULTS

Overall, 134 patients (median age 68 years, 64.5% female) could be contacted. The majority (73.1%) had normal motility; others had ineffective esophageal motility (8.2%), esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (13.4%), hypercontractile esophagus (3.0%), or absent contractility (2.2%), none managed invasively. Over 15 years of follow-up, DSI decreased from 8.0 (4.0-16.0) to 1.0 (0.0-6.0) (p < 0.001) and GSS improved from 5.5 (3.3-7.7) to 2.0 (0.0-4.0) (p < 0.001); improvement was consistent across CCv4.0 diagnoses and subgroups. The majority (82.8%) reported improvement over time, and antisecretory medication was the most effective intervention (83.0% improvement). There was no difference in medication efficacy (p = 0.75) or improvement in symptoms (p = 0.20) based on CCv4 diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

Esophageal symptoms improve with conservative symptomatic management over long-term follow-up when no conclusive obstructive motor disorders or achalasia spectrum disorders are found on HRM.

Management of Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Parkinson's Disease: A Comprehensive Review of Clinical Presentation, Workup, and Treatment

Gastrointestinal symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD) are among the most prevalent and debilitating of complications and present unique diagnostic and management challenges. Patients with PD commonly experience dysphagia, nausea, bloating, and constipation related to pathologic involvement of the enteric nervous system. In turn, gastrointestinal complications may impact motor fluctuations and the efficacy of levodopa therapy. This review will explore the common gastrointestinal manifestations of PD with an emphasis on clinical presentation, workup, and treatment strategies.

Clinical characteristics of absent contractility and ineffective esophageal motility: a multicenter study in Japan

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Absent contractility (AC) and ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) are esophageal hypomotility disorders diagnosed using high-resolution manometry (HRM). Patient characteristics and disease course of these conditions and differential diagnosis between AC and achalasia are yet to be elucidated.

METHODS

A multicenter study involving 10 high-volume hospitals was conducted. Starlet HRM findings were compared between AC and achalasia. Patient characteristics including underlying disorders and disease courses were analyzed in AC and IEM.

RESULTS

Fifty-three patients with AC and 92 with IEM were diagnosed, while achalasia was diagnosed in 1784 patients using the Chicago classification v3.0 (CCv3.0). The cut-off integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) value at 15.7 mmHg showed maximum sensitivity (0.80) and specificity (0.87) for differential diagnosis of AC from type I achalasia. While most ACs were based on systemic disorders such as scleroderma (34%) and neuromuscular diseases (8%), 23% were sporadic cases. The symptom severity of AC was not higher than that of IEM. Regarding the diagnosis of IEM, the more stringent CCv4.0 excluded 14.1% of IEM patients than the CCv3.0, although patient characteristics did not change. In patients with the hypomotile esophagus, concomitance of reflux esophagitis was associated with low distal contractile integral and IRP values. AC and IEM transferred between each other, paralleling with the underlying disease course, although no transition to achalasia was observed.

CONCLUSION

A successful determination of the optimal cut-off IRP value was achieved using the starlet HRM system to differentiate AC and achalasia. Follow-up HRM is also useful for differentiating AC from achalasia. Symptom severity may depend on underlying diseases instead of hypomotility severity.

Dysphagia Worsens With Increasing Ineffective Swallows Among Patients With Ineffective Esophageal Motility

INTRODUCTION

Ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) is the most common motility disorder identified on esophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM), but patients with this finding may be asymptomatic. Therefore, we aimed to identify specific HRM findings predictive of symptoms in IEM.

METHODS

Adult patients (≥18 y) who underwent HRM between March 2016 and July 2019 were retrospectively evaluated and reclassified according to Chicago Classification 4.0 (CC4.0). Demographic information, HRM parameters, and gastroesophageal reflux disease Health-Related Quality of Life Questionnaire responses were captured among those with normal manometry or IEM. We evaluated the association between heartburn, regurgitation, and dysphagia, with respect to HRM findings including ineffective swallows.

RESULTS

Of 379 patients, 243 (64.1%) had a normal manometry, 136 (35.9%) were on IEM spectrum, and 73 (19.3%) had conclusive IEM by CC4.0. Mean dysphagia scores were significantly higher in those with conclusive IEM compared with those with normal HRM (2.00 vs. 1.36, P=0.002), as was the percentage of individuals reporting dysphagia affecting daily activities (21.9% vs. 11.4%, P=0.02). Heartburn and regurgitation symptoms did not differ between groups. In a multivariable model of IEM patients, the percentage of ineffective swallows independently predicted a higher dysphagia burden (β regression coefficient: 0.032, P=0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Applying the CC4.0 definition for conclusive IEM identifies a group of patients with worse dysphagia symptoms. Within this group, the percentage of ineffective swallows was an independent predictor of dysphagia severity. These findings may help practitioners and patients contextualize the heterogeneous diagnosis of IEM.

Clinical Characteristics and Associated Psychosocial Dysfunction in Patients With Functional Dysphagia: A Study Based on High-Resolution Impedance Manometry and Rome IV Criteria

INTRODUCTION

The pathophysiology of functional dysphagia as defined by the updated Rome IV criteria is complex and remains largely unknown. We aimed to investigate its clinical characteristics and its association with psychosocial comorbidities.

METHODS

Consecutive patients referred to our motility laboratory for evaluation of esophageal dysphagia were identified. All patients were assessed with upper endoscopy, high-resolution impedance manometry, and validated symptom questionnaires. Data from those who were diagnosed with functional dysphagia (n = 96) based on the Rome IV criteria were analyzed. Age- and sex-adjusted healthy volunteers were also enrolled for comparison. Psychiatric comorbidity and poor sleep quality were defined as total score of 5-item Brief Symptom Rating Scale ≥6 and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index ≥6, respectively.

RESULTS

The age peak of patients with functional dysphagia was at 40-60 years (47.9%) with females predominant (67%). Forty-four patients (45.8%) had psychiatric comorbidities, whereas 80 (83.3%) experienced poor sleep quality. Female patients were more likely to have trouble falling asleep, shorter sleep duration, and severe bloating. Compared with the healthy volunteers, patients with functional dysphagia had higher 5-item Brief Symptom Rating Scale and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores (5.34 ± 3.91 vs 1.84 ± 2.61, 9.64 ± 4.13 vs 4.77 ± 3.60, both P < 0.001) but similar results on high-resolution impedance manometry. Those with ineffective esophageal motility (16.7%) had less sleep efficiency than those with normal motility.

DISCUSSION

Patients with functional dysphagia were mainly middle-aged women and had a high prevalence of psychiatric comorbidities and sleep disturbances, especially in female patients. Patients with functional dysphagia displayed similar esophageal motility as the healthy volunteers did.

Esophageal Motility Disorders: Current Approach to Diagnostics and Therapeutics

Dysphagia is a common symptom with significant impact on quality of life. Our diagnostic armamentarium was primarily limited to endoscopy and barium esophagram until the advent of manometric techniques in the 1970s, which provided the first reliable tool for assessment of esophageal motor function. Since that time, significant advances have been made over the last 3 decades in our understanding of various esophageal motility disorders due to improvement in diagnostics with high-resolution esophageal manometry. High-resolution esophageal manometry has improved the sensitivity for detecting achalasia and has also enhanced our understanding of spastic and hypomotility disorders of the esophageal body. In this review, we discuss the current approach to diagnosis and therapeutics of various esophageal motility disorders.

The value of conventional manometry in the identification of normal esophageal manometry

In the last decade, high-resolution esophageal manometry (HREM) is the main device for the management of dysphagia replacing conventional manometry (CM). Conventional manometry still seems to have some space to diagnose major motility disorders and differentiate normal from abnormal esophageal motility. The long term outcomes of patients with normal CM were analyzed in our study.Participants (patients with dysphagia and normal CM) took a questionnaire via a phone call in February 2021. Impact Dysphagia Questionnaire (IDQ) was used as an assessment tool.Only 55% (83/151) the individuals with previous normal manometric findings were reached via telephone. The group who have completed the survey was representative of the cohort. 66.2% of the participants were female (P = .40). The mean age was 57.21, mean weight was 70.69 kg, mean height was 163.74 cm and mean body mass index was 26.41. More than 40% of patients were completely asymptomatic at follow up, reflected by an IDQ score of 0. Only 28 out of 83 (33.7%) patients reported significant symptoms as reflected by an IDQ score greater than or equal to 7. The rest of responders admitted as having moderate to mild symptoms.HREM is a valid technique with comparable precision to CM. HREM measurements differ considerably to CM. The identification of normal motor function in CM is not likely a positive prognostic indicator and must be interpreted precautiously.

Chicago Classification update (V4.0): Technical review on diagnostic criteria for ineffective esophageal motility and absent contractility

Esophageal hypomotility disorders manifest with abnormal esophageal body contraction vigor, breaks in peristaltic integrity, or failure of peristalsis in the context of normal lower esophageal sphincter relaxation on esophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM). The Chicago Classification version 4.0 recognizes two hypomotility disorders, ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) and absent contractility, while fragmented peristalsis has been incorporated into the IEM definition. Updated criteria for ineffective swallows consist of weak esophageal body contraction vigor measured using distal contractile integral (DCI, 100-450 mmHg·cm·s), transition zone defects >5 cm measured using a 20 mmHg isobaric contour, or failure of peristalsis (DCI < 100 mmHg·cm·s). More than 70% ineffective swallows and/or ≥50% failed swallows are required for a conclusive diagnosis of IEM. When the diagnosis is inconclusive (50%-70% ineffective swallows), supplementary evidence from multiple rapid swallows (absence of contraction reserve), barium radiography (abnormal bolus clearance), or HRM with impedance (abnormal bolus clearance) could support a diagnosis of IEM. Absent contractility requires 100% failed peristalsis, consistent with previous versions of the classification. Consideration needs to be given for the possibility of achalasia in absent contractility with dysphagia despite normal IRP, and alternate complementary tests (including timed upright barium esophagram and functional lumen imaging probe) are recommended to confirm or refute the presence of achalasia. Future research to quantify esophageal bolus retention on stationary HRM with impedance and to understand contraction vigor thresholds that predict bolus clearance will provide further refinement to diagnostic criteria for esophageal hypomotility disorders in future iterations of the Chicago Classification.

Management of Ineffective Esophageal Hypomotility

Esophageal hypomotility in general and especially ineffective esophageal motility according to the Chicago criteria of primary motility disorders of the esophagus, is one of the most frequently diagnosed motility disorders on high resolution manometry and results in a large number of patients visiting gastroenterologists. Most patients with esophageal hypomotility present with gastroesophageal reflux symptoms or dysphagia. The clinical relevance of the motility pattern, however, is not well established but seems to be correlated with disease severity in reflux patients. The correlation with dysphagia is less clear. Prokinetic agents are commonly prescribed as first line pharmacologic intervention to target esophageal smooth muscle contractility and improve esophageal motor functions. However, the beneficial effects of these medications are limited and only confined to some specific drugs. Serotonergic agents, including buspirone, mosapride and prucalopride have been shown to improve parameters of esophageal motility although the effect on symptoms is less clear. Understanding on the complex correlation between esophageal hypomotility and esophageal symptoms as well as the limited evidence of prokinetic agents is necessary for physicians to appropriately manage patients with Ineffective Esophageal Motility (IEM).

Jackhammer Esophagus: Current Concepts and Dilemmas

Jackhammer esophagus (JE) is a recently recognized esophageal motility disorder that is characterized by hypercontractile peristalsis. More than 500 cases have been reported in the literature. Among patients referred for esophageal motility disorders, the prevalence of JE ranges from 0.42% to 9%, with most series describing a prevalence of 2% to 4%. Most cases are women (60.5%). The mean reported age of patients with JE is 65.2 years, and patients commonly have dysphagia (62.8%). Reflux symptoms occur in ∼40% of patients, and chest pain affects more than one-third of patients (36.4%). JE is a heterogenous disorder that is associated with several conditions, including obesity, opioid use, lung transplantation, eosinophilic infiltration of the esophagus, neoplasia, and systemic diseases. The cause and pathogenesis remain unknown, but several observations suggest that it is the result of multiple conditions that likely precipitate increased excitation and abnormal inhibition of neuromuscular function. The natural course of JE also is unknown, but progression to achalasia has been observed in a few patients. Treatment is challenging, in part because of the insufficient understanding of the disorder's underlying mechanisms. Various therapeutic modalities have been used, ranging from observation only to pharmacologic and endoscopic interventions (eg, botulinum toxin injection) to peroral endoscopic myotomy. Treatment efficacy remains largely anecdotal and insufficiently studied.

Assessment of esophageal motility disorders by real-time MRI

PURPOSE

To investigate imaging findings of esophageal motility disorders on dynamic real-time.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

102 patients with GERD-like symptoms were included in this retrospective study between 2015-2018. Dynamic real-time MRI visualized the transit of a 10 mL pineapple juice bolus through the esophagus and EGJ with a temporal resolution of 40 ms. Dynamic and anatomic parameters were measured by consensus reading. Imaging findings were compared to HRM utilizing the Chicago classification of esophageal motility disorders, v3.0.

RESULTS

All 102 patients completed real-time MRI in a median examination time of 15 min. On HRM, 14 patients presented with disorders with EGJ outlet obstruction (EGJOO) (13.7 %), 7 patients with major disorders of peristalsis (6.9 %), and 32 patients with minor disorders of peristalsis (31.4 %). HRM was normal in 49 patients (48.0 %). Incomplete bolus clearance was significantly more frequent in patients with esophageal motility disorders on HRM than in patients with normal HRM (p = 0.0002). In patients with motility disorders with EGJOO and major disorders of peristalsis, the esophageal diameter tended to be wider (23.6 ± 8.0 vs. 21.2 ± 3.5 mm, p = 0.089) and the sphincter length longer (19.7 ± 7.3 vs. 16.7 ± 3.0 mm, p = 0.091) compared to patients with normal HRM. 3/7 patients with achalasia type II were correctly identified by real-time MRI and one further achalasia type II patient was diagnosed with a motility disorder on MRI films. The other 3/7 patients presented no specific imaging features.

CONCLUSION

Real-time MRI is an auxiliary diagnostic tool for the assessment of swallowing events. Imaging parameters may assist in the detection of esophageal motility disorders.

High-Resolution Manometry-Observations After 15 Years of Personal Use-Has Advancement Reached a Plateau?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

In the absence of mucosal or structural disease, the aim of investigating the oesophagus is to provide clinically relevant measurements of function that can explain the cause of symptoms, identify pathology and guide effective management. One of the most notable recent advances in the field of oesophageal function has been high-resolution manometry (HRM). This review explores how innovation in HRM has progressed and has far from reached a plateau.

RECENT FINDINGS

HRM technology, methodology and utility continue to evolve; simple additions to the swallow protocol (e.g. eating and drinking), shifting position, targeting symptoms and adding impedance sensors to the HRM catheter have led to improved diagnoses, therapeutic decision-making and outcomes. Progress in HRM persists and shows little sign of abating. The next iteration of the Chicago Classification of motor disorders will highlight these advances and will also identify opportunities for further research and innovation.

Impedance in the evaluation of the esophagus

The aim of this paper is to review esophageal electrical impedance technologies and to discuss the use of these technologies for physiological measurements, diagnostics, and therapy of esophageal disease. In order to develop a better understanding of the pathophysiology of and improve the diagnosis of esophageal disorders, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and achalasia, several new diagnostic tests, including intraluminal impedance, esophageal mucosal impedance, and the functional luminal imaging probe, have been developed. These technologies have proven valuable for assessment of the esophagus in recent years. They provide information on esophageal flow properties, mucosal integrity, lumen shape, and distensibility in esophageal disorders, in particular for GERD and achalasia. Despite their promise and novel clinical studies, the potential of these technologies has been far from realized. New multidisciplinary approaches will contribute to our understanding and interpretation of esophageal impedance data and disease mechanisms.

Mosapride Improves Lower Esophageal Sphincter and Esophageal Body Function in Patients With Minor Disorders of Esophageal Peristalsis

Background/Aims

High-resolution manometry (HRM) has broadened the awareness of minor esophageal peristaltic disorders. However, the treatments for these minor disorders are limited and the role of prokinetics has been controversial. This study evaluates the effect of mosapride in patients with minor peristaltic disorders.

Methods

This study prospectively enrolled 21 patients with esophageal symptoms who were diagnosed with minor peristaltic disorders by gastroscopy and HRM using the Chicago classification version 3.0. Patients received mosapride 30 mg daily for 2 weeks. Symptoms were assessed using the abbreviated World Health Organization quality of life scale (WHOQOL-BREF) and a HRM study was performed before and after 2 weeks of treatment.

Results

HRM metrics of lower esophageal sphincter (LES) respiratory mean pressure (median 14.6 mmHg vs 17.3 mmHg; interquartile range [IQR] 8.7-22.5 mmHg vs 12.5-25.9 mmHg; P = 0.004) and distal contractile integral (median 343.8 mmHg·sec·cm vs 698.1 mmHg·sec·cm; IQR 286.5-795.9 mmHg·sec·cm vs 361.0-1127.6 mmHg·sec·cm; P = 0.048) were significantly increased after treatment. Complete response (≥ 80.0%), satisfactory response (≥ 50.0%), partial response (< 50.0%), and refractory response rates were 19.0%, 52.4%, 14.3%, and 14.3%, respectively. However, there was no statistical difference in all WHOQOL-BREF scores before and after treatment. Univariate analysis showed LES respiratory mean pressure (P = 0.036) was associated with symptom improvement (complete + satisfactory group). However, no statistical difference was found in other factors after multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

Mosapride improved esophageal symptoms and significantly increased LES respiratory mean pressure and distal contractile integral. Therefore, mosapride could enhance LES and esophageal body contraction pressures in patients with minor peristaltic disorders.

Normal study or minor motor disorders detected on high-resolution oesophageal manometry - are they relevant?

Introduction

The clinical significance of normal motility or minor peristaltic disorders, noted on esophageal manometry, in symptomatic patients is unclear.

Aim

To determine the clinical presentation, response to treatment, and outcomes at 2-year follow-up in symptomatic patients with normal manometry and minor peristaltic disorders.

Material and methods

This prospective cohort study included patients between 18 and 80 years old. Patients with previous upper gastrointestinal surgery, prior dilation or myotomy, and major motility disorders or EGJ outflow obstruction as per CC v 3.0 were excluded. The cohort was divided into two groups: normal manometry (Gp1) and minor peristaltic defects (Gp2). Study subjects were contacted for follow-up at 6, 12, and 24 months from the date of initial high-resolution oesophageal manometry study. Details of drug use, symptom control, and requirement of anti-reflux procedures in both groups were obtained.

Results

Fifty-six patients (median age: 42.3 years, males 72%) formed the study cohort: Gp1 - 35 (62.5%) and Gp2 - 21 (37.5%). The patients in the two groups were comparable in terms of symptoms (p = 0.94) and treatment (p = 0.15) at presentation. On follow-up, the majority of the cases (76.8%) reported improvement in symptoms at 2 years. None required anti-reflux procedures. There were no significant differences in the symptom profile and drug use in patients in the two groups at various time periods.

Conclusions

Patients with normal and minor oesophageal motor function abnormalities do not worsen over time.

Overlap in disease concept of functional esophageal disorders and minor esophageal motility disorders

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Functional gastrointestinal disorders are the most common disorders in gastroenterology and are currently considered as gut-brain interaction disorders with multiple related factors including motility disturbance. However, high-resolution manometry (HRM) had revealed a new disease concept known as minor esophageal motility disorders. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between functional esophageal disorders (FEDs) and minor esophageal motility disorders.

METHODS

Functional esophageal disorders were diagnosed using upper endoscopy, pH monitoring, and HRM, to exclude achalasia, esophago-gastric junction outflow obstruction, and other major esophageal motility disorders. FEDs with or without minor esophageal motility disorders were compared using the Chicago classification.

RESULTS

Twelve healthy volunteers also subjected to HRM showed no minor esophageal motility disorders. Of the 40 patients with FEDs, 15 (37.5%) were diagnosed with minor esophageal motility disorders. Characteristics were not different between patients with and without minor esophageal motility disorders (sex: P = 0.609, age: P = 0.054, body mass index: P = 0.137, and presence of psychiatric disorders: P = 0.404). The type and location of symptoms were not related to the comorbidity rate of minor esophageal motility disorders (P = 0.744 and 0.094). No patients with FEDs developed major esophageal motility disorders.

CONCLUSIONS

Minor esophageal motility disorders were frequently observed in FEDs, but the causal relationship between esophageal symptoms remains unclear. The disease concepts of FEDs and minor esophageal motility disorders are considered to overlap and are both independent of major esophageal motility disorders.

British Society of Gastroenterology guidelines for oesophageal manometry and oesophageal reflux monitoring

These guidelines on oesophageal manometry and gastro-oesophageal reflux monitoring supersede those produced in 2006. Since 2006 there have been significant technological advances, in particular, the development of high resolution manometry (HRM) and oesophageal impedance monitoring. The guidelines were developed by a guideline development group of patients and representatives of all the relevant professional groups using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE II) tool. A systematic literature search was performed and the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) tool was used to evaluate the quality of evidence and decide on the strength of the recommendations made. Key strong recommendations are made regarding the benefit of: (i) HRM over standard manometry in the investigation of dysphagia and, in particular, in characterising achalasia, (ii) adjunctive testing with larger volumes of water or solids during HRM, (iii) oesophageal manometry prior to antireflux surgery, (iv) pH/impedance monitoring in patients with reflux symptoms not responding to high dose proton pump inhibitors and (v) pH monitoring in all patients with reflux symptoms responsive to proton pump inhibitors in whom surgery is planned, but combined pH/impedance monitoring in those not responsive to proton pump inhibitors in whom surgery is planned. This work has been endorsed by the Clinical Services and Standards Committee of the British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG) under the auspices of the oesophageal section of the BSG.

Ineffective esophageal motility: Concepts, future directions, and conclusions from the Stanford 2018 symposium

BACKGROUND

Ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) is a heterogenous minor motility disorder diagnosed when ≥50% ineffective peristaltic sequences (distal contractile integral <450 mm Hg cm s) coexist with normal lower esophageal sphincter relaxation (integrated relaxation pressure < upper limit of normal) on esophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM). Ineffective esophageal motility is not consistently related to disease states or symptoms and may be seen in asymptomatic healthy individuals.

PURPOSE

A 1-day symposium of esophageal experts reviewed existing literature on IEM, and this review represents the conclusions from the symposium. Severe IEM (>70% ineffective sequences) is associated with higher esophageal reflux burden, particularly while supine, but milder variants do not progress over time or consistently impact quality of life. Ineffective esophageal motility can be further characterized using provocative maneuvers during HRM, especially multiple rapid swallows, where augmentation of smooth muscle contraction defines contraction reserve. The presence of contraction reserve may predict better prognosis, lesser reflux burden and confidence in a standard fundoplication for surgical management of reflux. Other provocative maneuvers (solid swallows, standardized test meal, rapid drink challenge) are useful to characterize bolus transit in IEM. No effective pharmacotherapy exists, and current managements target symptoms and concurrent reflux. Novel testing modalities (baseline and mucosal impedance, functional lumen imaging probe) show promise in elucidating pathophysiology and stratifying IEM phenotypes. Specific prokinetic agents targeting esophageal smooth muscle need to be developed for precision management.

How I Approach Dysphagia

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review presents an overview of the diagnostic approach to esophageal dysphagia and summarizes recent epidemiological trends and technical advancements.

RECENT FINDINGS

The evaluation of dysphagia begins with a detailed history followed by endoscopy to evaluate for any structural abnormalities including malignancy. This is especially true given the emergence of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) as a dominant cause of esophageal dysphagia. In fact, it is now standard practice to obtain esophageal biopsies during endoscopy performed to evaluate dysphagia, since EoE can present without the characteristic mucosal features of rings, furrows, and exudate. Achalasia is also more frequently encountered since the introduction of high-resolution manometry (HRM) and the Chicago Classification into clinical practice. The Chicago Classification provides a stepwise diagnostic algorithm for evaluating HRM studies and systematically diagnosing esophageal motility disorders. Lastly, the functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP) is a novel technology that has added insight into both achalasia and EoE. Measuring esophageal distensibility with FLIP has useful prognostic implications for both diseases, and FLIP can identify motility abnormalities in achalasics not detected with HRM. A careful history is key to the efficient evaluation of dysphagia, and endoscopy is usually the first diagnostic study to obtain. For patients with prominent reflux symptoms, an empiric trial with proton pump inhibitors is reasonable then because reflux disease is such a common cause of dysphagia. Thereafter, patients should undergo HRM to evaluate for a motility disorder, and FLIP can provide complementary data to guide management.

High-Resolution Manometry Diagnosis of Ineffective Esophageal Motility Is Associated with Higher Reflux Burden

INTRODUCTION

Ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) is the most commonly diagnosed abnormality on high-resolution manometry (HRM). However, the clinical significance of IEM and associated reflux burden remains unclear.

AIM

Our primary aim was to compare reflux patterns between IEM versus normal motility on HRM.

METHODS

HRM and reflux studies in patients with IEM and normal motility were retrospectively reviewed. Esophageal pressure topography parameters, reflux variables, and patient-reported outcome questionnaires were explored.

RESULTS

A total of 239 patients with IEM were explored. Of these, 146 underwent reflux monitoring. Additionally, 100 patients with normal HRM all of whom had undergone reflux monitoring were included. IEM patients were more likely to have an abnormal number of reflux events compared to normal (22.7% vs. 9.0%, p < 0.01). Including only off-proton pump inhibitor (PPI) testing, IEM patients had higher mean total acid exposure time (AET) and total reflux events compared to normal motility (p = 0.02). Within IEM patients, higher AET modestly correlated with increased percentage of impaired swallows. Increased reflux events modestly correlated with higher impaired swallows and decreased lower esophageal sphincter (LES) resting pressure. Reflux burden increased with higher esophagogastric junction (EGJ) subtype, driven mostly by subtype III, although there was no difference in the distribution of EGJ subtypes between the IEM and normal HRM cohorts.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with HRM diagnosis of IEM may be more prone to acid reflux while off-PPI and non-acid reflux while on-PPI. Reflux burden appears to be worse in IEM patients who have lower resting LES pressure, higher EGJ subtype, or higher percentage of impaired swallows.

The differences in the esophageal motility between liquid and solid bolus swallows: A multicenter high-resolution manometry study in Chinese asymptomatic volunteers

BACKGROUND

The results of the esophageal body motility differences between liquid and solid swallows from high-resolution manometry (HRM) studies are not consistent. The information of the frequency of ineffective liquid and solid bolus swallows in healthy individuals during HRM procedure is limited. The normative values of the HRM parameters of both liquid and solid swallows for Chinese population are lacking.

METHODS

The esophageal HRM data of 101 healthy volunteers from multicenters in China were analyzed. The values of the HRM parameters were summarized and compared between liquid and solid swallows. The frequencies of ineffective liquid and solid swallows were summarized.

RESULTS

Esophagus contracted stronger and slower in solid bolus swallows than water swallows with HREM. Ineffective water swallow (DCI < 450 mm Hg.s.cm) and ineffective bread swallow (DCI < 800 mm Hg.s.cm) were frequently seen in asymptomatic individuals. The adding of bread swallows to the HREM procedure might cause diagnostic change in about 15.8% (16/101) of the asymptomatic individuals.

CONCLUSIONS

The vigor and velocity of the esophageal peristalsis between liquid and solid bolus swallows are different. Ineffective water and solid bolus swallows are not rare. Adding solid bolus swallows brings diagnostic change, and it may be needed routinely for the HRM procedure.

High-resolution impedance manometry parameters in the evaluation of esophageal function of non-obstructive dysphagia patients

BACKGROUND

High-resolution impedance manometry (HRIM) allows evaluation of esophageal bolus retention, flow, and pressurization. We explored novel HRIM measures and assessed their temporal relationship to dysphagia symptoms for boluses of different volume and consistency in non-obstructive dysphagia (NOD) patients.

METHODS

Thirty-three NOD patients (n = 19 minor or no disorder of peristalsis ("Normal") and n = 14 esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction ("EGJOO")) were evaluated with HRIM. Patients were administered 5 and 10 mL liquid, semisolid, and 2 and 4 cm solid boluses and indicated bolus perception during individual swallows using a 5-point Likert scale. HRIM was analyzed to assess Chicago Classification and pressure flow metrics, esophageal impedance integral (EII) ratio, and bolus flow time (BFT).

KEY RESULTS

Overall, bolus perception increased with increasing bolus consistency (P < 0.001), but did not differ significantly between EGJOO and Normal patients. EGJOO patients had higher IRP4, higher levels of bolus residual (ie, EII ratio and IR), and restricted esophageal emptying. The results for linking semisolid bolus perception to semisolid-derived measures revealed more biomechanically plausible and consistent patterns when compared to those derived for liquid boluses. In Normal patients, perception of boluses of heavier viscosity was related to higher bolus flow resistance during transport, whilst in EGJOO, perception was related to restriction of esophageal emptying.

CONCLUSION & INFERENCES

These novel pressure-impedance measures may aid in the evaluation of NOD patients by revealing abnormal motor patterns, which may explain symptom generation. Future studies are needed to evaluate which of these measures are worthy of calculation and to establish protocol settings that allow for their meaningful interpretation.

Clinical features and long-term outcomes of lower esophageal sphincter-dependent and lower esophageal sphincter-independent jackhammer esophagus

BACKGROUND

The most recent Chicago Classification expanded the criteria for diagnosis of jackhammer esophagus (JHE) to include the distal contractile integral (DCI) of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The clinical impact of the manometric inclusion of LES hypercontractility remains unclear. We aimed to analyze the clinical features and long-term outcomes of measured LES-dependent (LD-JHE) and LES-independent (LI-JHE) jackhammer esophagus.

METHODS

Patients meeting diagnostic criteria for JHE were identified at two academic medical centers. High-resolution esophageal manometry data were re-analyzed with inclusion and exclusion of the LES DCI. LD-JHE was defined by falling outside JHE diagnostic criteria with exclusion of the LES. A telephone survey was conducted for follow-up utilizing the impact dysphagia (IDQ-10) questionnaire.

KEY RESULTS

Eighty-one patients met study inclusion criteria, with 12 (14.8%) classified as LD-JHE. LD-JHE patients had a significantly lower mean DCI and fewer swallows with DCI >8000 mm Hg-s-cm. Basal LES pressure was higher in patients with dysphagia to solids than those with dysphagia to solids and liquids. Clinical and manometric parameters were otherwise similar between groups. Sixty-six patients had clinical or phone follow-up at a median of 46.6 months. Forty-one patients (62.1%) received therapies directed at JHE. There was no difference in symptom improvement for treated vs untreated patients or for JHE subtype.

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

Our findings suggest that LD-JHE and LI-JHE are clinically indistinguishable and thus support existing diagnostic criteria. Furthermore, our long-term follow-up data suggest that JHE, irrespective of LES involvement, may improve without treatment. Further study is needed to clarify which patients merit therapeutic intervention.

Oesophageal dysphagia: a stepwise approach to diagnosis and management

Dysphagia is a common symptom in the general population. Incidence varies depending on the specific definition used. A good medical history is vital for distinguishing true oesophageal dysphagia from oropharyngeal dysphagia or other causes. Oesophageal dysphagia is a so-called red flag alarm symptom requiring oesophagogastroduodenoscopy. However, even after investigations including oesophagogastroduodenoscopy (with biopsy), barium swallow, and oesophageal manometry, no obstructive cause may be found. This Review suggests an algorithm of history-taking and investigation to allow the causes of non-obstructive dysphagia to be identified, including functional dysphagia. The Review then discusses management strategies and outcomes for functional dysphagia.

In ineffective esophageal motility, failed swallows are more functionally relevant than weak swallows

BACKGROUND

Esophageal pressure topography (EPT) diagnosis of ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) can be non-specific with unclear clinical significance.

AIMS

To determine whether peristaltic vigor or lower esophageal sphincter (LES) integrity is associated with poor clearance and acid reflux in IEM.

METHODS

Bolus clearance on high-resolution impedance manometry (HRIM) and available reflux studies in patients with IEM were retrospectively reviewed. Bolus clearance was assessed using both line tracing and colored contour methods on HRIM. EPT parameters, bolus clearance, and acid reflux variables were explored.

KEY RESULTS

Eighty-eight patients with IEM were included. Bolus clearance occurred in 71% of all swallows, and 55.7% of patients had complete bolus transit (CBT, bolus clearance in ≥80% of swallows). Bolus clearance was impaired in swallows with distal contractile integral (DCI) <100 mmHg•cm•s compared to DCI 100-450 (0.43 vs 0.79, P < .0001). A cutoff at DCI 100 mmHg•cm•s was associated with clearance with an accuracy of 76% compared to 49% at DCI 450 (P = .0001 for both). A median DCI <100 was associated with a higher Eckardt score (9 vs 3, P = .03), and on reflux testing available in 47 patients, with abnormal acid exposure time (P = .002). Peristaltic reserve (PR) defined as (DCI of multiple rapid swallow/median DCI of wet swallows), integrated relaxation pressure, and resting lower esophageal sphincter pressure were not associated with clearance or acid exposure.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

Failed peristalsis, as defined by DCI <100 mmHg•cm•s, is associated with impaired bolus clearance and more severe dysphagia in IEM, and likely abnormal acid exposure.

High-resolution esophageal manometry in a Mexican population: diagnostic outcome

High-resolution esophageal manometry (HREM) has become the method of choice for evaluation of esophageal motility disorders. There is a paucity of data with this technique from Hispanic countries. This study aims to characterize the diagnostic outcome of HREM in a large cohort of consecutive patients in Mexico.This study was conducted in Monterrey, Mexico from March 1, 2013 to March 31, 2015. Our diverse study population included patients from a major academic institution and the community. HREM was done applying the Chicago Classification 3. Diagnostic outcome was grouped as weak peristaltic disorders, gastroesophageal junction disorders, and hypertensive/uncoordinated peristalsis.We studied 670 consecutive patients, 57% were women, mean age was 43.8 years. The majority (465 [69%]) were referred for preoperative evaluation of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), 365 (78%) of whom had a normal study. Overall, 193 (29%) patients had abnormal motility, the most common disorder being weak peristalsis (104 [54%]). In patients with dysphagia, the most frequent finding was achalasia (23/46 [50%]).To our knowledge, this is the first study to characterize the diagnostic outcome of HREM in a large cohort of Hispanic patients in Latin America. At our open access center, 69% of patients were referred for preoperative evaluation of GERD, reflecting the popularity of antireflux surgery. This study confirms the high prevalence of weak peristalsis and highlights the importance of addressing its pathophysiology and management. The finding of achalasia in 50% of our patients with dysphagia is consistent with recent reports regarding the rising incidence of this disorder and underscores the need of prompt motility testing in this population.

Jackhammer esophagus: Assessing the balance between prepeak and postpeak contractile integral

BACKGROUND

We hypothesized that symptoms in Jackhammer esophagus (JH) are associated with an imbalance between the prepeak and postpeak phases of contraction. Thus, we developed a method to distinguish the contractile integral components of prepeak and postpeak phase contractile activity to determine the contribution of each phase and their association with dysphagia.

METHODS

Patients diagnosed with JH were enrolled and compared to controls. The first five intact swallows during manometry were analyzed. A single swallow was divided into a prepeak and postpeak phase. The contractile integral of each phase and its corresponding time-controlled integral were computed. All metrics were compared between controls and JH patients subcategorized by the impaction dysphagia question (IDQ) score with cut-off of 6.

KEY RESULTS

Thirty eight JH patients and 71 controls were included. Twelve JH patients had IDQ ≤ 6 and 26 with IDQ > 6. JH patients had higher contractile integral in both phases, and a higher ratio between postpeak to prepeak contractile integral independent of duration. Similarly, JH patients with an IDQ > 6 had higher contractile metrics than those with IDQ ≤ 6. There was a correlation between the IDQ score and the ratio within the postpeak to prepeak contractile integral (r = .375).

CONCLUSIONS

Abnormalities in contractile integral of the postpeak phase are more significant in JH with higher dysphagia scores Although the total postpeak contractile integral was higher in symptomatic patients, this was associated with longer duration of postpeak activity suggesting that dysphagia patients with JH have a defect in the postpeak phase of peristalsis.

Normal Values of High-Resolution Manometry in Supine and Upright Positions in a Thai Population

BACKGROUND

Although cut-off values used in high-resolution manometry (HRM) to diagnose esophageal motility disorders are based on representative samples of the US population and assume a supine position, differences in population and body positioning can reportedly affect results.

AIMS

To establish normal HRM values for Thai people in both supine and upright positions.

METHODS

Forty-one healthy subjects were recruited, each of whom underwent solid-state HRM with ten 5-mL swallows of water in both the supine and upright positions. Measuring parameters according to the Chicago classification criteria (CC v3.0) were included, for which the mean, median and 5th and 95th percentiles (PCTLs) were calculated.

RESULTS

The results corresponded with the CC v3.0 criteria, except for the mean, and 5th PCTL of the distal contractile integral (DCI), which were lower for this population. In the upright position, the mean and median values for DCI, intrabolus pressure and integrated relaxation pressure were significantly decreased, whereas the length of the transitional zone was significantly increased. The limitations of this study include: (1) the relatively low number of participants, (2) the limited recruitment of participants only at Ramathibodi Hospital and (3) the limited recruitment of only young and middle-aged participants.

CONCLUSIONS

We established normal values for the HRM parameters in a representative sample of the Thai population. Our supine results still prove that the use of the CC v3.0 is preferable. HRM testing in patients measured in the upright position should be analyzed based on the normative values obtained from upright swallow studies.

Chicago Classification of Esophageal Motility Disorders: Lessons Learned

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

High-resolution manometry (HRM) is increasingly performed worldwide, to study esophageal motility. The Chicago classification is subsequently applied to interpret the manometric findings and facilitate a diagnosis of esophageal motility disorders. This review will discuss new insights regarding the diagnosis and management using the Chicago classification.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent studies have demonstrated that high-resolution manometry is superior to conventional manometry, and has a higher sensitivity to diagnose achalasia. Furthermore, the subclassification of achalasia as used in the Chicago classification has prognostic value and can be used to direct treatment. Diagnosis of esophageal spasm has been improved by using the distal latency as diagnostic criterion. Recently, criteria for minor disorders of peristalsis have been sharpened, leading to a lower rate of patients with abnormal results, thereby increasing the relevance of a diagnosis. High-resolution manometry is now considered the gold standard for diagnosis of esophageal motility disorders. The Chicago classification provides a standardized approach for analysis and categorization of abnormalities that has led to a significant increase in our knowledge regarding the diagnosis and management of motility disorders. Further refinement of the classification will be required.

Esophageal Dysmotility in Patients following Total Laryngectomy

Objectives Dysphagia is common in total laryngectomees, with some symptoms suggesting esophageal dysmotility. Tracheoesophageal (TE) phonation requires effective esophagopharyngeal air passage. Hence, esophageal dysmotility may affect deglutition or TE phonation. This study aimed to determine (1) the characteristics of esophageal dysmotility in laryngectomees, (2) whether clinical history is sensitive in detecting esophageal dysmotility, and (3) the relationship between esophageal dysmotility and TE prosthesis dysfunction. Study Design Multidisciplinary cross-sectional study. Setting Tertiary academic hospital. Subjects and Methods For 31 participants undergone total laryngectomy 1 to 12 years prior, clinical histories were taken by a gastroenterologist and a speech pathologist experienced in managing dysphagia. Esophageal high-resolution manometry was performed and analyzed using Chicago Classification v3.0. Results Interpretable manometric studies were obtained in 23 (1 normal manometry). Esophageal dysmotility patterns included achalasia, esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction, diffuse esophageal spasm, and other major (30%) and minor (50%) peristaltic disorders. The sensitivity of predicting any esophageal dysmotility was 28%, but it is noteworthy that patients with achalasia and diffuse esophageal spasm (DES) were predicted. Two of 4 participants with TE puncture leakage had poor esophageal clearance. Of 20 TE speakers, 12 had voice problems, no correlation between poor voice, and any dysmotility pattern. Conclusions Peristaltic and lower esophageal sphincter dysfunction are common in laryngectomees. Clinical history, while not predictive of minor motor abnormalities, predicted correctly cases with treatable spastic motor disorders. Dysmotility was not associated with poor phonation, although TE puncture leakage might be linked to poor esophageal clearance. Esophageal dysmotility should be considered in the laryngectomees with persisting dysphagia or leaking TE puncture.

The clinical significance of esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction and hypercontractile esophagus in high resolution esophageal manometry

BACKGROUND

Although major manometric abnormalities, the significance of esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO) and hypercontractile esophagus (HE) is poorly understood. We sought to determine long term outcomes for EGJOO and HE.

METHODS

High-resolution impedance manometry (HRIM) studies conducted from 5/30/2012 to 8/1/2014 consistent with EGJOO and HE and normal studies from 5/30/12 to 11/1/12 were identified. Standardized follow up was conducted with a phone survey utilizing the impact dysphagia questionnaire (IDQ-10).

KEY RESULTS

56 EGJOO, 40 HE patients and 33 controls were identified. Structural evaluation with EGD and esophagram did not differ among groups. Use of opiates in EGJOO (P<.05) and of anticholinergics in EGJOO and HE patients was more prevalent than in controls (P<.005). Dysphagia was more common in EGJOO (P<.05) and chest pain more common in HE (P<.005) at presentation. While HE patients were more likely to be symptomatic (P<.05), the majority of EGJOO and HE patients overall were asymptomatic at a mean 2.8 years follow up without medical or procedural intervention in the majority (72.5%). Symptom persistence at follow up was predicted by maximum distal contractile integral (DCI) and IRP in both EGJOO and HE (P<.05).

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

The majority of patients with EGJOO and HE appear to have a benign clinical course similar to controls in the absence of specific treatment. However, the combination of abnormal IRP and DCI in both HE and EGJOO appears to discriminate an important subset of patients who may benefit from treatment. Further refinement of manometric criteria may therefore provide more useful clinical definitions of EGJOO and HE.

Diagnostic yield of high-resolution manometry with a solid test meal for clinically relevant, symptomatic oesophageal motility disorders: serial diagnostic study

BACKGROUND

The use of high-resolution manometry (HRM) to diagnose oesophageal motility disorders is based on ten single water swallows (SWS); however, this approach might not be representative of oesophageal function during the ingestion of normal food. We tested whether inclusion of a standardised solid test meal (STM) to HRM studies increases test sensitivity for major motility disorders. Additionally, we assessed the frequency and cause of patient symptoms during STM.

METHODS

Consecutive patients who were referred for investigation of oesophageal symptoms were recruited at Nottingham University Hospitals (Nottingham, UK) in the development study and at University Hospital Zürich (Zürich, Switzerland) in the validation study. HRM was done in the upright, seated position with a solid-state assembly. During HRM, patients ingested ten SWS, followed by a standardised 200 g STM. Diagnosis of oesophageal motility disorders was based on the Chicago Classification validated for SWS (CCv3) and with STM (CC-S), respectively. These studies are registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, numbers NCT02407938 and NCT02397616.

FINDINGS

The development cohort included 750 patients of whom 360 (48%) had dysphagia and 390 (52%) had reflux or other symptoms. The validation cohort consisted of 221 patients, including 98 (44%) with dysphagia and 123 (56%) with reflux symptoms. More patients were diagnosed with a major motility disorder by use of an STM than with SWS in the development set (321 [43%] patients diagnosed via STM vs 163 [22%] via SWS; p<0·0001) and validation set (73 [33%] vs 49 [22%]; p=0·014). The increase was most evident in patients with dysphagia (241 [67%] of 360 patients on STM vs 125 [35%] patients on SWS in the development set, p<0·0001), but was also present in those referred with reflux symptoms (64 [19%] of 329 patients vs 32 [10%] patients in the development set, p=0·00060). Reproduction of symptoms was reported by nine (1%) of 750 patients during SWS and 461 (61%) during STM (p<0·0001). 265 (83%) of 321 patients with major motility disorders and 107 (70%) of 152 patients with minor motility disorders reported symptoms during the STM (p=0·0038), compared with 89 (32%) of 277 patients with normal motility as defined with CC-S (p<0·0001).

INTERPRETATION

The diagnostic sensitivity of HRM for major motility disorders is increased with use of the STM compared with SWS, especially in patients with dysphagia. Observations made during STM can establish motility disorders as the cause of oesophageal symptoms.

FUNDING

None.

High-resolution esophageal manometry: interpretation in clinical practice

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Esophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM) is the current state-of-the-art diagnostic tool to evaluate esophageal motility patterns and, as such, is widely adopted in clinical practice. This article will review the interpretation of esophageal HRM in clinical practice.

RECENT FINDINGS

HRM uses a high-resolution catheter to transmit intraluminal pressure data that are subsequently converted into dynamic esophageal pressure topography (EPT) plots. Metric data from EPT plots are synthesized to yield an esophageal motility diagnosis according to the Chicago Classification, a formal analytic scheme for esophageal motility disorders, which is currently in version 3.0. The standard HRM protocol consists of a baseline phase and a series of 10 wet swallows in the supine or reclined position. In addition, data from swallows in the seated position and provocative HRM maneuvers provide useful information about motility properties. Combined high-resolution impedance technology is also clinically available and enables concurrent assessment of bolus transit and postprandial responses. Finally, there is ongoing interest to optimize the training and competency assessment for interpretation of HRM in clinical practice.

SUMMARY

Esophageal HRM is a valuable and sophisticated clinical tool to evaluate esophageal motility patterns. Emerging clinical applications of esophageal HRM include combined impedance technology, provocative maneuvers, and postprandial evaluation.

The Effect of Anti-reflux Therapy on Patients Diagnosed with Minor Disorders of Peristalsis in High-resolution Manometry

Background/Aims

Minor disorders of peristalsis are esophageal motility disorders categorized by the Chicago Classification (CC), version 3.0, which was announced in 2014. This study evaluated the efficacy of anti-reflux therapy in patients with minor peristaltic disorders.

Methods

Patients with minor peristaltic disorders in accordance with CC v3.0 were included. We reviewed the medical records of patients with esophageal high-resolution manometry findings, and investigated the demographic and clinical information as well as the medical therapy. Thereafter, the response to treatment was assessed after at least 4 weeks of treatment.

Results

A total of 24 patients were identified as having minor disorders of peristalsis from January 2010 to December 2015. The mean follow-up period was 497 days, and there were 17 patients (70.8%) patients with ineffective esophageal motility. In terms of anti-reflux therapy, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) with prokinetic agents and PPIs alone were prescribed in 19 patients (79.2%) and 5 patients (20.8%), respectively. When the rate of response to the treatment was assessed, the responders rate (complete+satisfactory [≥50%] responses) was 54.2% and the non-responders rate (partial [<50%]+refractory responses) was 45.8%. Patients in the responder group were younger than those in the non-responder group (p=0.020). Among them, 13 patients underwent 24-hour multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH, and 10 patients (76.9%) were pathologic gastroesophageal reflux.

Conclusions

The majority of esophageal minor peristaltic disorders were accompanied by gastroesophageal reflux, and therefore, they might respond to acid inhibitor. Further well-designed, prospective studies are necessary to confirm the effect of anti-reflux therapy in these patients.

Impact of symptom burden and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) on esophageal motor diagnoses

BACKGROUND

High-resolution manometry (HRM) categorizes esophageal motor processes into specific Chicago Classification (CC) diagnoses, but the clinical impact of these motor diagnoses on symptom burden remain unclear.

METHODS

Two hundred and eleven subjects (56.8±1.0 years, 66.8% F) completed symptom questionnaires (GERDQ, Mayo dysphagia questionnaire [MDQ], visceral sensitivity index, short-form 36, dominant symptom index, and global symptom severity [GSS] on a 100-mm visual analog scale) prior to HRM. Subjects were stratified according to CC v3.0 and by dominant presenting symptom; contraction wave abnormalities (CWA) were evaluated within "normal" CC. Symptom burden, impact of diagnoses, and HRQOL were compared within and between cohorts.

KEY RESULTS

Major motor disorders had highest global symptom burden (P=.02), "normal" had lowest (P<.01). Dysphagia (MDQ) was highest with esophageal outflow obstruction (P=.02), but reflux symptoms (GERDQ) were similar in CC cohorts (P=ns). Absent contractility aligned best with minor motor disorders. Consequently, pathophysiologic categorization into outflow obstruction, hypermotility, and hypomotility resulted in a gradient of decreasing dysphagia and increasing reflux burden (P<.05 across groups); GSS (P=.05) was highest with hypomotility and lowest with "normal" (P=.002). Within the "normal" cohort, 33.3% had CWA; this subgroup had symptom burden similar to hypermotility. Upon stratification by symptoms, symptom burden (GSS, MDQ, HRQOL) was most profound with dysphagia.

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

Chicago Classification v3.0 diagnoses identify subjects with highest symptom burden, but pathophysiologic categorization may allow better stratification by symptom type and burden. Contraction wave abnormalities are clinically relevant and different from true normal motor function. Transit symptoms have highest yield for a motor diagnosis.

The Chicago Classification 3.0 Results in More Normal Findings and Fewer Hypotensive Findings With No Difference in Other Diagnoses

OBJECTIVES

High-resolution manometry (HRM) is the preferred method for the evaluation of motility disorders. Recently, an update of the diagnostic criteria (Chicago 3.0) has been published. The aim of this study was to compare the performance criteria of Chicago version 2.0 (CC2.0) vs. 3.0 (CC3.0) in a cohort of healthy volunteers and symptomatic patients.

METHODS

HRM studies of asymptomatic and symptomatic individuals from several centers of Spain and Latin America were analyzed using both CC2.0 and CC3.0. The final diagnosis was grouped into hierarchical categories: obstruction (achalasia and gastro-esophageal junction obstruction), major disorders (distal esophageal spasm, absent peristalsis, and jackhammer), minor disorders (failed frequent peristalsis, weak peristalsis with small or large defects, ineffective esophageal motility, fragmented peristalsis, rapid contractile with normal latency and hypertensive peristalsis) and normal. The results were compared using McNemar's and Kappa tests.

RESULTS

HRM was analyzed in 107 healthy volunteers (53.3% female; 18-69 years) and 400 symptomatic patients (58.5% female; 18-90 years). In healthy volunteers, using CC2.0 and CC3.0, obstructive disorders were diagnosed in 7.5% and 5.6%, respectively, major disorders in 1% and 2.8%, respectively, minor disorders in 25.2% and 15%, respectively, and normal in 66.4% and 76.6%, respectively. In symptomatic individuals, using CC2.0 and CC3.0, obstructive disorders were diagnosed in 11% and 11.3%, respectively, major disorders in 14% and 14%, respectively, minor disorders in 33.3% and 24.5%, respectively, and normal in 41.8% and 50.3%, respectively. In both groups of individuals, only an increase in normal and a decrease in minor findings using CC3.0 were statistically significant using McNemar's test.

DISCUSSIONS

CC3.0 increases the number of normal studies when compared with CC2.0, essentially at the expense of fewer minor disorders, with no significant differences in major or obstructive disorders. As the relevance of minor disorders is questionable, our data suggest that CC3.0 increases the relevance of abnormal results.

Characterization of Esophageal Motility Disorders in Children Presenting With Dysphagia Using High-Resolution Manometry

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The Chicago classification was based on metrics derived from studies in asymptomatic adult subjects. Our objectives were to characterize esophageal motility disorders in children and to determine whether the spectrum of manometric findings is similar between the pediatric and adult populations.

RECENT FINDINGS

Studies have suggested that the metrics utilized in manometric diagnosis depend on age, size, and manometric assembly. This would imply that a different set of metrics should be used for the pediatric population. There are no standardized and generally accepted metrics for use in the pediatric population, though there have been attempts to establish metrics specific to this population. Overall, we found that the distribution of esophageal motility disorders in children was like that described in adults using the Chicago classification. This analysis will serve as a prequel to follow-up studies exploring the individual metrics for variability among patients, with the objective of establishing novel metrics for the pediatric population.

Ineffective Esophageal Motility Progressing into Distal Esophageal Spasm and Then Type III Achalasia

The clinical significance of minor esophageal motility disorders is unclear, though they typically carry a benign course. Distal esophageal spasm progressing to achalasia has been reported, although it appears to be rare. We report a case of a patient with dysphagia and chest pain who was found to have ineffective esophageal motility on high-resolution manometry, which developed into distal esophageal spasm and then progressed to type III achalasia.

Disorders of gastrointestinal hypomotility

Ingestion and digestion of food as well as expulsion of residual material from our gastrointestinal tract requires normal propulsive, i.e. motor, function. Hypomotility refers to inherited or acquired changes that come with decreased contractile forces or slower transit. It not only often causes symptoms but also may compromise nutritional status or lead to other complications. While severe forms, such as pseudo-obstruction or ileus, may have a tremendous functional impact, the less severe forms of hypomotility may well be more relevant, as they contribute to common disorders, such as functional dyspepsia, gastroparesis, chronic constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Clinical testing can identify changes in contractile activity, defined by lower amplitudes or abnormal patterns, and the related effects on transit. However, such biomarkers show a limited correlation with overall symptom severity as experienced by patients. Similarly, targeting hypomotility with pharmacological interventions often alters gut motor function but does not consistently improve symptoms. Novel diagnostic approaches may change this apparent paradox and enable us to obtain more comprehensive information by integrating data on electrical activity, mechanical forces, patterns, wall stiffness, and motions with information of the flow of luminal contents. New drugs with more selective effects or more specific delivery may improve benefits and limit adverse effects. Lastly, the complex regulation of gastrointestinal motility involves the brain-gut axis as a reciprocal pathway for afferent and efferent signaling. Considering the role of visceral input in emotion and the effects of emotion on visceral activity, understanding and managing hypomotility disorders requires an integrative approach based on the mind-body continuum or biopsychosocial model of diseases.

Characteristics of esophageal motility measured by high resolution esophageal manometry in hiatal hernia patients

AIM: To investigate the functional change of esophageal motility in hiatal hernia (HH) patients using high resolution esophageal manometry (HRM), in order to determine the possible pathogenesis of HH and provide more evidence for detection and treatment of HH.

METHODS: We performed a retrospective study of 66 patients with hiatal hernia who underwent HRM from June 2014 to April 2015 as well as upper endoscopy and/or barium esophagogram within 3 mo at our hospital. Among them, 31 patients were diagnosed with reflux esophagitis (RE) by endoscopy. Besides, we selected 28 healthy volunteers as controls to compare clinical characteristics and HRM data between the three groups.

RESULTS: In total there were 35 patients with HH alone (Group A), of whom 16 had typical symptoms including acid reflux and heartburn, 12 suffered main symptoms resembling retrosternal pain, and the remainder had typical symptoms including dysphagia and belching. After HRM, 4 of them were diagnosed with esophagogastric junction (EGJ) outflow obstruction, 1 with severe esophageal motility disorder, and 9 with mild esophageal motility disorder. In total there were 31 patients with RE (Group B), of whom 20 had typical symptoms including acid reflux and heartburn, 6 suffered main symptoms resembling retrosternal pain, and the remainder had typical symptoms including dysphagia and belching. After HRM, 2 of them were diagnosed with esophagogastric junction (EGJ) outflow obstruction, 3 with severe esophageal motility disorder, and 10 with mild esophageal motility disorder. There was no significant difference in the above findings between groups A and B (P > 0.05). Lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure in groups A and B was significantly lower than that in the control group (P = 0.016), especially group A (13.43 mmHg ± 8.75 mmHg vs 21.66 mmHg ± 7.19 mmHg, P = 0.004). Upper esophageal sphincter (UES) pressure had no significant difference among the three groups (P = 0.854). However, the morbidity of UES hypotensive pressure was significantly higher in group A than the control group (25.7% vs 3.6%, P = 0.041).

CONCLUSION: About 40% of HH patients have esophageal motility disorders. HH patients have significantly lower LES and UES pressure than the health group. The reduced LES and UES pressure and esophageal motility disorder may play a crucial role in reflux events and even result in esophageal mucosal injury. HRM can provide accurate and exhaustive data to guide diagnosis and evaluate prognosis.

High-Resolution Manometry Improves the Diagnosis of Esophageal Motility Disorders in Patients With Dysphagia: A Randomized Multicenter Study

OBJECTIVES

High-resolution manometry (HRM) might be superior to conventional manometry (CM) to diagnose esophageal motility disorders. We aimed to compare the diagnosis performed with HRM and CM and confirmed at 6 months in a multicenter randomized trial.

METHODS

Patients with unexplained dysphagia were randomized to undergo either CM or HRM. Motility disorders were diagnosed using the Castell and Spechler classification for CM and the Chicago classification for HRM. Diagnosis confirmation was based on clinical outcome and response to treatment after 6-month follow-up. The initial diagnosis and percentage of confirmed diagnoses were compared between the two arms (CM and HRM).

RESULTS

In total, 247 patients were randomized and 245 analyzed: 122 in the CM arm and 123 in the HRM arm. A manometric diagnosis was more frequently initially achieved with HRM than with CM (97% vs. 84%; P<0.01). Achalasia was more frequent in the HRM arm (26% vs. 12% in the CM arm; P<0.01) while normal examinations were more frequent in the CM arm (52% vs. 28% in the HRM arm; P<0.05). After follow-up, the initial diagnosis was confirmed in 89% of patients in the HRM arm vs. 81% in the CM arm (P=0.07). Finally, overall procedure tolerance was better with CM than with HRM (P<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

This randomized trial demonstrated an improved diagnostic yield for achalasia with HRM compared with CM. Diagnoses tended to be more frequently confirmed in patients who underwent HRM, suggesting that esophageal motility disorders could be identified earlier with HRM than with CM (ClinicalTrial.gov, NCT01284894).

Clinical Application of Esophageal High-resolution Manometry in the Diagnosis of Esophageal Motility Disorders

Esophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM) is replacing conventional manometry in the clinical evaluation of patients with esophageal symptoms, especially dysphagia. The introduction of HRM gave rise to new objective metrics and recognizable patterns of esophageal motor function, requiring a new classification scheme: the Chicago classification. HRM measurements are more detailed and more easily performed compared to conventional manometry. The visual presentation of acquired data improved the analysis and interpretation of esophageal motor function. This led to a more sensitive, accurate, and objective analysis of esophageal motility. In this review we discuss how HRM changed the way we define and categorize esophageal motility disorders. Moreover, we discuss the clinical applications of HRM for each esophageal motility disorder separately.