Manometric characteristics of the upper esophageal sphincter recorded with a microsleeve

Cricopharyngeus muscle dysfunction: a poorly defined disorder from diagnosis to treatment

PURPOSE

Cricopharyngeus muscle dysfunction (CPMD) is a common clinical occurrence with very few clear diagnostic criteria and multiple pathways for treatment. Incidence of CPMD is not known, but some data suggest around 25% of people with dysphagia experience some degree of CPMD, which negatively impacts swallowing safety and efficiency. Workup and treatment of CPMD can require multidisciplinary collaboration across laryngologists, speech-language pathologists with training in dysphagia management, and gastroenterologists. The purpose of this paper is to review what is known about CPMD and identify areas of future research in CPMD diagnosis and treatment.

METHODS

An overview of CPMD, relative treatments and disorders, and a discussion of future areas of research needed to improve clinical care of CPMD.

RESULTS

Details regarding historical background, pathophysiology and treatment practiced for CPMD are included.

CONCLUSION

In summary, CPMD is a poorly defined disease due to a lack of understanding of its pathophysiology and the lack of consensus diagnostic criteria. Well-designed, prospective clinical trials are necessary to develop a better understanding of clinical incidence of CPMD, impact of the disorder on oropharyngeal swallowing, and how to approach treatment of the disorder surgically or in conjunction with therapy directed by a specialized speech-language pathologist.

Retrograde Cricopharyngeal Dysfunction: A Review

Retrograde cricopharyngeal dysfunction (RCPD), also referred to as retrograde cricopharyngeus dysfunction, is a condition characterized by the inability to burp. The pathophysiology of this condition is thought to result from failure of cricopharyngeal sphincter relaxation during periods of esophageal distension, which leads to patients' bothersome symptoms. RCPD negatively impacts patients' quality of life and is associated with bloating, gurgling, avoidance of carbonation, self-imposed dietary and lifestyle changes designed to minimize discomfort, and flatulence. Complaints often start during adolescence, and many patients search for a diagnosis for years before obtaining treatment. A recent increase in awareness through patient-led social media discussion boards describing the 'no burp' syndrome is leading to an increasing incidence of presentations, often with patients making a self-diagnosis. The increased incidence of RCPD is fueling a larger case series investigating treatment options and outcomes. In this review, we discuss what is known about the pathophysiology of this condition, the otolaryngologic perspective on diagnosis and treatment, the patients' lived experience of this condition, and the influence of social media on RCPD.

Retrograde upper esophageal sphincter function… and dysfunction

Upper esophageal sphincter (UES) function has been extensively studied in the context of swallowing and antegrade bolus transit, but relatively little attention has been paid to its retrograde function to facilitate belching. Indeed, prior to 2019, there were only three case reports in the world literature of individuals with a physiologically demonstrated inability to belch due to failure of the UES to relax after gas venting from the stomach and ensuing low-pressure esophageal distention. In this minireview, that disorder is termed retrograde UES dysfunction (R-UESD). The associated symptom complex includes some combination of chest pain, gurgling noises in the chest, bloating, nausea, hiccups, and flatulence. The obscurity of R-UESD has recently been challenged by two large series published in the ENT literature of circumstantially demonstrated R-UESD that was resolved by botulinum toxin (BT) injection to the cricopharyngeus. The field has now further advanced with the publication in this issue of the Journal by Oude Nijhuis et al. of 8 cases of R-UESD demonstrated by high-resolution impedance manometry (HRIM) with a provocative challenge of carbonated water. These individuals were also treated with BT and at 3-month follow-up had both an encouraging symptomatic response and HRIM demonstrated resolution of R-UESD.

Potential for Volitional Control of Resting Pressure at the Upper Oesophageal Sphincter in Healthy Individuals

Resting pressure at the upper oesophageal sphincter (UOS) has been reported to be susceptible to factors such as emotional stress or respiration. This exploratory study investigated the potential for behavioural modulation of UOS resting pressure in healthy adults to increase our understanding of volitional control of UOS pressure, and the potential development of rehabilitation approaches. Six healthy adults were seen one hour daily for two weeks (10 days) and for one post-training session after a training break of two weeks. Manipulation of UOS resting pressure was practised during a protocol of alternating increased and decreased pressure. A high-resolution manometry contour plot was used as a biofeedback modality. Participants were asked to explore how to achieve warmer and cooler colours (pressure increase and decrease, respectively) at the UOS resting pressure band, without changing head position or manipulating activity of other muscles. Performance was analysed prior to training start and following daily training. Participants were able to increase resting pressure following one week of practice; however, there was no evidence for purposeful pressure decrease. The increased resting pressure achieved by participants indicates a capacity for purposeful pressure modulation given intensive biofeedback training. The lack of volitional reduction in pressure may be explained by sustained pressure generation due to the intrinsic muscular characteristics of the UOS and a flooring effect in healthy subjects, in whom physiology mandates a minimum degree of resting pressure to fulfil the barrier function. Distention caused by the presence of the intraluminal catheter cannot be ruled out.

Pharyngeal Pressure and Timing During Bolus Transit

Determining intrabolus pressure (IBP) at the upper esophageal sphincter (UES) and in the esophagus has given compelling evidence that IBP can be a predictor for swallowing dysfunction. Studies have looked most superiorly at the low hypopharynx region but there has been no inquiry into what IBP measures throughout the entire pharynx can tell us. We present a study to describe the pressures within and surrounding the moving bolus throughout the pharynx and into the UES. Simultaneous high-resolution manometry (HRM) and videofluoroscopy were performed in ten healthy subjects swallowing ten 10 mL thin-liquid barium boluses. Three events surrounding bolus movement were tracked via videofluoroscopy, and two additional events were found using manometric measures. As the bolus passes through the pharynx, low pressure is created at and below the head of the bolus. A modest pressure increase is seen as the bolus passes through the pharynx, and finally, high pressure is observed at the bolus tail, followed by an even larger pressure generation of a clearance event. HRM allows for greater resolution in data collection in the pharynx and in this study, aided in identifying semi-unique characteristics around the hypopharynx and the UES which are consistent with the complex anatomy of the regions and the transition of the UES from active closure to relaxed opening. In the future, additional studies designed to look at aged and diseased populations may lead to better understanding of disease etiology, and treatment options.

Oropharyngeal dysphagia: manifestations and diagnosis

Swallowing disorders (dysphagia) have been recognized by the WHO as a medical disability associated with increased morbidity, mortality and costs of care. With increasing survival rates and ageing of the population, swallowing disorders and their role in causing pulmonary and nutritional pathologies are becoming exceedingly important. Over the past two decades, the study of oropharyngeal dysphagia has been approached from various disciplines with considerable progress in understanding its pathophysiology. This Review describes the most frequent manifestations of oropharyngeal dysphagia and the clinical as well as instrumental techniques that are available to diagnose patients with dysphagia. However, the clinical value of these diagnostic tests and their sensitivity to predict outcomes is limited. Despite considerable clinical research efforts, conventional diagnostic methods for oropharyngeal dysphagia have limited proven accuracy in predicting aspiration and respiratory disease. We contend that incorporation of measurable objective assessments into clinical diagnosis is needed and might be key in developing novel therapeutic strategies.

[Physiology of the upper esophageal sphincter]

The upper esophageal sphincter (UES) forms a barrier between the pharynx and the esophagus. When opened, the UES allows the food bolus to pass into the esophagus, as well as permitting emesis and eructation. The basal sphincter tone constitutes a barrier function which serves to prevent reflux and passive aerophagia in the case of deep breathing. Basal sphincter tone is dependent on several influencing factors; during swallowing, sphincter opening and closure follow a complex multiphase pattern. This article presents an overview of the current understanding of UES physiology.

[High-resolution manometry of the upper esophageal sphincter]

BACKGROUND

High-resolution manometry (HRM) represents a valuable tool for the evaluation of peristalsis in the oesophagus. Due to the wide spacing of the pressure transducers, however, examination of the upper oesophageal sphincter's relaxation period has not proved satisfactory as yet.

DESIGN

A feasibility study was carried out to clarify whether evaluation of the upper oesophageal sphincter's behaviour during swallows is possible using a catheter with very closely spaced pressure transducers.

SETTING

University hospital.

PROCEDURE

Healthy subjects were analysed using a specially developed catheter as well as a modified software to evaluate whether swallow-associated behaviour could be verified.

RESULTS

Interpreting pressure profiles in terms of resting pressure, residual pressure, relaxation time and maximum peristaltic pressure proved to be feasible. The present analysis supports the existence of distinct dynamic swallow-associated phases, which conform to the phases that had previously been postulated. An additional initial phase, however, should be added.

CONCLUSION

This newly created catheter design in combination with the modified software enable a very detailed evaluation of the sphincter's swallow-associated behaviour and represent a valuable, minimally invasive tool with no exposure to radiation for dysphagia diagnosis as well as treatment planning.

Benign esophageal disease in the elderly

For the most part, the management of benign esophageal disease in all patients is in evolution. Advances in laparoscopic, thoracoscopic, and endoscopic techniques have lessened the morbidity and mortality associated with the traditional approaches to this pathology. Our understanding of the pathophysiology of primary motor disorders remains incomplete but is certainly more advanced than our understanding just a decade ago. As research continues in this area, our knowledge will increase. Persistent development efforts with industry will continue to provide less invasive options for the management of these patients, and, eventually, the results associated with these techniques will improve as well. For the management of these pathologies in the elderly, the critical issues are the associated comorbidities, the current quality of life, the life expectancy, and the desired quality of life. The optimal treatment strategy may be determined by consideration of all of these factors along with the relative effectiveness and durability of each treatment strategy for the individual elderly patient.

Globus sensation and increased upper esophageal sphincter pressure with distal esophageal acid perfusion

The aim of the present study was to determine whether acid perfusion into the distal esophagus causes a globus sensation and an increase in upper esophageal sphincter (UES) pressure. UES pressures were measured using a sleeve-type sensor in 20 healthy volunteers. A 0.1-N HCl solution, the same as gastric acid, was perfused into the distal esophagus at a rate of 20 mL/min. During perfusion, 4-channel pH monitoring was performed to determine whether the HCl reached the hypopharynx. The following parameters were measured: (1) changes in UES pressure before and during acid perfusion, (2) presence or absence of a globus sensation or heartburn, (3) the time at which a globus sensation or heartburn was noted by the patient and (4) the position of the electrode at which the pH drop was recorded. Ten subjects enrolled as the control group received perfusions of distilled water. Acid perfusion raised the UES pressure in 13 of the 20 subjects. All 13 complained of globus at about the same time as the UES pressure increased. Twelve of the 13 subjects who experienced globus also complained of heartburn, which preceded the globus sensation in ten such cases. None of the control subjects reported globus or had elevated UES pressure. In the acid perfusion group, no pH reduction at the two most cranial electrodes was observed in any subject. In conclusion, the globus sensation is due to elevated UES pressure, resulting from gastroesophageal reflux and does not require direct exposure of the hypopharynx to gastric acid. The incidence of heartburn in combination with a globus sensation would be much higher if the cause of the latter were acid reflux.

Endoscopic CO2 laser cricopharyngeal myotomy

OBJECTIVES

Over the past 10 years, endoscopic cricopharyngeal myotomy laser surgery has been proposed as an alternative to transcervical cricopharyngeal myotomy. We will describe the technique and review the literature so that it may gain credence as a viable option for the treatment of cricopharyngeal achalasia.

METHODS

A literature review of endoscopic and transcervical cricopharyngeal myotomy will be performed. The technical aspects of endoscopic cricopharyngeal myotomy will be presented and accompanied by intraoperative photographs, illustrations, and an online video demonstration.

RESULTS

Endoscopic cricopharyngeal myotomy is a well-tolerated procedure with low morbidity and good outcomes. It can be performed by surgeons who are comfortable with transoral laryngopharyngeal laser surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic cricopharyngeal myotomy is a viable alternative to classic transcervical cricopharyngeal myotomy with equivalent outcomes and comparable if not less morbidity.

Hyperdynamic upper esophageal sphincter pressure: a manometric observation in patients reporting globus sensation

OBJECTIVES

Although globus sensation is a common symptom, its pathogenesis is poorly defined. The aim of this study was to quantify the timing and magnitude of respiratory variation in upper esophageal sphincter (UES) pressure with high-resolution manometry (HRM) in patients with globus sensation, normal controls, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) patients without globus sensation.

METHODS

HRM recordings spanning from the hypopharynx to the stomach were analyzed in 131 consecutive globus patients with normal (64) and abnormal (67) distal esophageal motility. Resting UES pressure was analyzed up to 5 min before 10 5-ml water swallows. Change in UES pressure, its average magnitude between inspiration and expiration, and nadir UES relaxation pressure in globus patients were compared with those in 68 controls and 46 GERD patients without globus.

RESULTS

UES pressure typically increased during inspiration in both controls and patients. Respiration-related change in resting UES pressure was significantly amplified in globus patients (37.3 mm Hg) compared with controls (10.6 mm Hg) and GERD patients (13.0 mm Hg) (P<0.0001). A respiratory change in UES pressure>27 mm Hg was found in >60% of globus patients and <15% of controls and GERD patients without globus. This hyperdynamic UES was not associated with other abnormalities of esophageal motor function.

CONCLUSIONS

Hyperdynamic respiratory UES pressure changes were prevalent in patients reporting globus sensation irrespective of their deglutitive UES and distal esophageal motility. Although the etiology of this hyperdynamic UES is unclear, it does appear to be a frequent manometric observation in this patient group and may provide a new focus for further studies into pathogenesis and therapy.

Deglutitive upper esophageal sphincter relaxation: a study of 75 volunteer subjects using solid-state high-resolution manometry

This study aimed to use a novel high-resolution manometry (HRM) system to establish normative values for deglutitive upper esophageal sphincter (UES) relaxation. Seventy-five asymptomatic controls were studied. A solid-state HRM assembly with 36 circumferential sensors spaced 1 cm apart was positioned to record from the hypopharynx to the stomach. Subjects performed ten 5-ml water swallows and one each of 1-, 10-, and 20-ml volume swallows. Pressure profiles across the UES were analyzed using customized computational algorithms that measured 1) the relaxation interval (RI), 2) the median intrabolus pressure (mIBP) during the RI, and 3) the deglutitive sphincter resistance (DSR) defined as mIBP/RI. The automated analysis succeeded in confirming bolus volume modulation of both the RI and the mIBP with the mean RI ranging from 0.32 to 0.50 s and mIBP ranging from 5.93 to 13.80 mmHg for 1- and 20-ml swallows, respectively. DSR was relatively independent of bolus volume. Peak pharyngeal contraction during the return to the resting state postswallow was almost 300 mmHg, again independent of bolus volume. We performed a detailed analysis of deglutitive UES relaxation with a novel HRM system and customized software. The enhanced spatial resolution of HRM allows for the accurate, automated assessment of UES relaxation and intrabolus pressure characteristics, in both cases confirming the volume-dependent effects and absolute values of these parameters previously demonstrated by detailed analysis of concurrent manometry/fluoroscopy data. Normative values were established to aid in future clinical and investigative studies.

Radial asymmetry of the upper oesophageal sphincter pressure profile: fact or artefact

Radial asymmetry of the upper oesophageal sphincter high-pressure zone (UESHPZ) is an accepted notion based on manometric studies. Our aim was to evaluate the effect of the catheter diameter and configuration on the resting pressure profile of the UES. We studied 14 young (30 +/- 2 years) and 14 healthy elderly volunteers (77 +/- 2 years) using the station pull-through technique. We used a specially designed water perfused manometric assembly that incorporated a proximal round cross-section (4.8 mm) and a distal flat cross-section (4.8 x 1.2 mm). Anterior and posterior manometric sites on the round catheter measured significantly higher pressure values than did the sites oriented laterally at the same level (P < 0.001) in both young and elderly. In contrast, the flat-shaped catheter measured statistically indistinguishable pressures from all four orientations in both age groups. In both young and elderly the anterio-posterior, but not lateral pressures by the round catheter were significantly higher (P < 0.001) than those of the flat catheter. An exaggerated anteriorly and posteriorly oriented pressure may be recorded compared with lateral pressures depending on the diameter and non-conforming shape of the recording catheter with respect to the UES producing the appearance of radial asymmetry in the UESHPZ.

Pharyngoesophageal manometry with an original balloon sensor probe for the study of oropharyngeal dysphagia

The goal of our study was to verify the clinical applicability of an original balloon sensor probe for the manofluorographic study of oropharyngeal dysphagia. A prototype apparatus for manofluorography was developed and a standard perfused probe for esophageal manometry was modified by applying fluid-filled floppy balloons 0.5-, 1-, and 2.5-cm long. A group of healthy volunteers and a group of patients affected by oropharyngeal dysphagia underwent manofluorography. Statistically significant differences were calculated between the groups with regard to the upper esophageal sphincter (UES) basal and postrelaxation contraction pressures (p<0.05, Student's t test, 2.5- vs. 1-cm-long balloon sensors). In the group of patients versus the group of healthy volunteers, statistically significant differences were calculated with regard to pharyngeal intrabolus pressure, UES residual and UES postrelaxation contraction pressures, and mean diameter of the UES during maximal opening (p<0.05, Student's t test). A strong negative correlation (r=-0.92, p=0.001; r=-0.93, p=0.006 linear regression analysis) was observed between intrabolus pressure and UES diameter during maximum opening in the group of patients. The balloon probe demonstrated its reliability and clinical adequacy for the study of swallowing disorders.