European guidelines on achalasia: United European Gastroenterology and European Society of Neurogastroenterology and Motility recommendations

Curriculum for training in peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) in Europe (Part I): European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) Position Statement

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is an advanced endoscopic procedure that has become a first-line treatment for esophageal achalasia and other esophageal spastic disorders. Structured training is essential to optimize the outcomes of this technique. The European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) has recognized the need to formalize and enhance training in POEM. This Position Statement presents the results of a systematic review of the literature and a formal Delphi process, providing recommendations for an optimal training program in POEM that aims to produce endoscopists competent in this procedure. In a separate document (POEM curriculum Part II), we provide technical guidance on how to perform the POEM procedure based on the best available evidence. 1: POEM trainees should acquire a comprehensive theoretical knowledge of achalasia and other esophageal motility disorders that encompasses pathophysiology, diagnostic tool proficiency, clinical outcome assessment, potential adverse events, and periprocedural management. 2: Experience in advanced endoscopic procedures (endoscopic mucosal resection and/or endoscopic submucosal dissection [ESD]) is encouraged as a beneficial prerequisite for POEM training. 3: ESGE suggests that POEM trainees without ESD experience should perform an indicative minimum number of 20 cases on ex vivo or animal models before advancing to human POEM cases with an experienced trainer. 4: ESGE recommends that the trainee should observe an indicative minimum number of 20 live cases at expert centers before starting to perform POEM in humans. 5: The trainee should undertake an indicative minimum number of 10 cases under expert supervision for the initial human POEM procedures, ensuring that trainees can complete all POEM steps independently. 6: ESGE recommends avoiding complex POEM cases during the early training phase. 7: POEM competence should reflect the technical success rate, both the short- and long-term clinical success rates, and the rate of true adverse events. 8: A POEM center should maintain a prospective registry of all procedures performed, including patient work-up and outcomes, procedural techniques, and adverse events.

Differences in medical care satisfaction of patients with "functional" vs "organic" esophageal diseases, Italian validation of the PPRS SF questionnaire

Patient-physician relationship (PPR) plays a key role in modern healthcare, especially within gastrointestinal medical practice. In 2017 Kurlander et al. developed a Patient-Physician-Relationship-Scale (PPRS), a questionnaire used to assess the patients' medical care-satisfaction. The PPRS was later simplified by Drossman et al. in 2021 by creating a PPRS-SF (short form). This study aimed to validate the PPRS-SF in Italian and to administer it to patients with "functional" and "organic" esophageal diseases, to highlight the differences in the PPR between the two categories. The process of validation was carried out following a standardized forward-backward procedure and each step was overseen by a Rome foundation independent clinical monitor. The Italian version of the PPRS-SF was then administered to 50 Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE), 53 Achalasia, 48 Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and 44 esophageal disorders of gut brain interaction (eDGBI) patients. In eDGBI and GERD, the degree of patients' satisfaction was significantly lower. Between a score of -36 and + 36, the mean score for patients with EoE was 30.20 (± 9.78), for Achalasia 23.78 (± 19.9); for GERD 20.46 (± 16.03) and for esophageal DGBI 17.91 (± 18.41). Moreover, there was a negative significant correlation between the PPR and age (R=- 0.208). This study validated the Italian version of the PPRS-SF questionnaire and showed that the patients' diagnosis together with other factors such as their age, can affect the PPR. In particular, patients with DGBI and older patients reported lower scores than the ones with organic diseases and the younger ones, respectively.

Long-term outcomes of pneumatic balloon dilation versus peroral endoscopic myotomy in type I and II achalasia patients: a propensity score-matched analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) shows higher efficacy than pneumatic balloon dilation (PBD) for type I and II achalasia over 2 years. However, long-term durability beyond 5 years remains under-investigated. This study assessed the long-term efficacy of PBD versus POEM.

METHODS

This retrospective comparative study examined treatment-naïve achalasia patients who underwent either PBD or POEM. Cohort balance was achieved through propensity score (PS) matching based on age, sex, Eckardt score, and Charlson Comorbidity Index. The primary outcome was the time to a second intervention. Secondary outcomes were treatment failure, Eckardt score, number of intervention sessions, weight gain, and adverse events.

RESULTS

Of the 127 patients, 67 underwent PBD and 60 underwent POEM, with an average follow-up of 7 years (interquartile range, 5-10). After PS matching, 100 patients with 1:1 matching were included in the analysis. Baseline characteristics, including clinical, endoscopic, and manometric attributes, were comparable between groups. The POEM group had a significantly longer time to a second intervention than the PBD group (hazard ratio, .139; 95% confidence interval, .048-.405) and underwent less endoscopic sessions (P < .001 by linear marginal model analysis) within the first 2 years. Beyond 2 years, subsequent interventions were comparable between groups. There were no differences in the Eckardt score or weight gain. Hospital stays were shorter in the PBD group (2 vs 4 days, P < .001). POEM patients had more adverse events, including perforation.

CONCLUSIONS

POEM demonstrated greater long-term durability than PBD, but PBD was associated with shorter hospital stays and fewer adverse events.

Esophageal Candida Infection and Esophageal Cancer Risk in Patients With Achalasia

Importance

Patients with achalasia face a higher risk of developing esophageal cancer (EC), but the surveillance strategies for these patients remain controversial due to the long disease duration and the lack of identified risk factors.

Objective

To investigate the prevalence of esophageal Candida infection among patients with achalasia and to assess the association of Candida infection with EC risk within this population.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study included patients with achalasia diagnosed at or referred for treatment and monitoring to the Erasmus University Medical Center in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, between January 1, 1980, and May 31, 2024. Data analysis was conducted from August 1 to October 31, 2024.

Exposure

Esophageal Candida infection.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcomes were the prevalence of esophageal Candida infection and its association with EC development among patients with achalasia. Associations were estimated using time-dependent Cox proportional hazards regression models with esophageal Candida infection as a time-varying covariate, adjusting for age at diagnosis and sex.

Results

This study included 234 patients with achalasia (median [IQR] age at diagnosis, 45 [32-63] years; 117 [50%] male), with a median follow-up time of 13 (4-22) years. Esophageal Candida infection was identified in 29 patients (12%), while EC was observed in 24 patients (10%). Esophageal cancer risk analysis was performed for 207 patients with 2 or more consecutive endoscopy follow-up visits (median [IQR] age at diagnosis, 43 [32-60] years; 104 [50%] male). The median (IQR) follow-up time for this subgroup was 16 (9-26) years. Among these patients, esophageal Candida infection was independently associated with an increased risk of EC (adjusted hazard ratio [AHR], 8.24 [95% CI, 2.97-22.89]). Additionally, age at diagnosis (AHR, 1.06 [95% CI, 1.03-1.10]) and male sex (AHR, 3.34 [95% CI, 1.08-10.36]) were independently associated with EC risk.

Conclusions and Relevance

This retrospective cohort study found that prior esophageal Candida infection, older age at diagnosis, and male sex were associated with increased risk of EC among patients with achalasia. These findings provide an important rationale for optimizing the monitoring of patients with achalasia.

Terminal Stage of Esophageal Achalasia Combined With Adenocarcinoma After a Previous Open Myotomy

Achalasia is a rare, chronic disorder of esophageal motility characterized by the lower esophageal sphincter's inability to relax and a lack of normal esophageal peristalsis. We present a 70-year-old man with longstanding achalasia, a previous open myotomy, and adenocarcinoma in the lower third of the esophagus. A subtotal esophageal resection, gastroesophagoplasty by McKeown, and pyloroplasty by Heineke-Mikulicz were performed.

Achalasia: beyond the basics

Achalasia is a rare oesophageal disease characterised by an unrelaxing lower oesophageal sphincter and abnormal peristalsis of the oesophageal body. Achalasia symptoms include dysphagia to solid and liquid, chest pain, regurgitation and weight loss. Achalasia diagnosis might be delayed for many years when atypical symptoms dominate. Significant progress has been made over the last two decades regarding our understanding of pathophysiology, methods of evaluation and management. The development of high-resolution manometry in particular has improved the diagnosis of achalasia, as well as other major motility disorders. Subtyping achalasia into manometric patterns has pathophysiological and therapeutic implications. Furthermore, complementary tests such as timed barium swallow and the functional lumen imaging probe (EndoFLIP; Crospon Medical Devices, Galway, Ireland) have significantly added to achalasia diagnosis algorithm and management decision-making. Progression in management has helped optimise established therapy (pneumatic dilatation and Heller myotomy) and introduced new endoscopic treatments (peroral endoscopic myotomy) and surgical techniques (surgical robotic Heller myotomy). This review will aim to shed light on the most recent advances in achalasia diagnosis, classification and management.

Own Experience in the Use of Artificial Intelligence Technologies in the Diagnosis of Esophageal Achalasia

Aim: to demonstrate an artificial intelligence model that optimises the differential diagnosis of achalasia.

Material and methods. The study included 75 patients: 52 % men (mean age 44.5 ± 17.8 years) and 48 % women (mean age 45.6 ± 16.6 years,) with a preliminary diagnosis of achalasia. Patients were divided into four groups: type I, II, III achalasia and a group of patients whose results did not correspond to a diagnosis of achalasia according to HRM performed based on Chicago Classification version 4.0. On the basis of a set of data from 750 swallows and therefore 6750 manometric parameters, the artificial intelligence models DecisionTreeClassifier, RandomForestClassifier and CatBoostClassifier have been trained to provide a manometric diagnosis. The comparison criteria were the training time and the f1_score metric. The technical characteristics of the model (hyperparameters) were selected using the GridSearchCV method. The model with the best results was integrated into a web application.

Results. The RandomForestClassifier was chosen as the best performing model to compare. Its technical characteristics were “decision trees” and branching depth the number of which was 14 and 5 respectively. With a maximum possible value of 1.0, these hyperparameters achieved f1_score=0.91 in 27 seconds. The web application, developed on the basis of this model, is capable of analyzing manometric data and establishing one of three types of achalasia in patients. Alternatively, it can exclude the diagnosis of achalasia. The output of an image corresponding to the diagnosis is produced for each manometric type of the disease.

Conclusions. For the first time in Russia, a machine learning model based on high-resolution esophageal manometry data was developed at the V. Kh. Vasilenko Clinic of Internal Disease Propedeutics, Gastroenterology, and Hepatology of Sechenov University. The model has been applied to the creation of a web application which has the ability to substantiate the manometry diagnosis of patients. The Federal Service for Intellectual Property (Rospatent) issued a certificate of state registration of the computer program No. 2024665795 dated July 5, 2024. This artificial intelligence programme can be used in clinical practice as a medical decision support tool to optimize the process of differential diagnosis of achalasia and early detection of the disease, to determine the patient's prognosis and to select the method of further treatment.

State-of-the-Art Surgery in Achalasia

Background

Achalasia is a motility disorder of the esophagus and depending on its type, esophageal tubular hypo- or hypermotility can cause typical symptoms, such as dysphagia, chest pain, weight loss, or regurgitation. Clinical symptoms during initial diagnosis as well as over the course of therapy can be measured by the Eckardt score. Diagnostics include high-resolution manometry (HR manometry), (timed barium) esophagogram, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, multiple rapid swallow response, and Endo-FLIP measurement. In this work, we provide a review of the recent literature on surgical treatment of achalasia.

Summary

Besides pharmacological and endoscopic interventions, surgical procedures of laparoscopic/robotic Heller myotomy (LHM/RHM) and 180° anterior Dor's semifundoplication versus 270° dorsal Toupet's fundoplication are primary therapeutic options, especially for type I and II achalasia. Both surgical procedures display little morbidity and mortality. Postsurgical results are comparable between LHM and RHM. RHM allows better angulation during myotomy, lower rates of intraoperative mucosal laceration, and better visualization of the muscles in the lower esophageal sphincter area. Surgery can also be performed safely after failed endoscopic treatments.

Key Messages

Surgery in achalasia is especially indicated in patients ≤40 years and also recommended after repeated unsuccessful or complicated endoscopic interventions. In selected patients with end-stage achalasia and sigmoid-shaped megaesophagus, esophagectomy is a reasonable option in order to improve quality of life.

Management of end - stage achalasia with laparoscopic Heller myotomy: A case report

INTRODUCTION

Achalasia is a rare esophageal motility disorder causing dysphagia and weight loss. Severe cases may present with a significantly dilated and sigmoid-shaped esophagus (sigmoid achalasia). Traditionally, esophagectomy was used for such cases. However, laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) is emerging as a less invasive alternative with comparable outcomes.

CASE PRESENTATION

We present a 45-year-old male with a seven-year history of dysphagia, regurgitation, chest pain, and recent weight loss. Barium esophagogram, high-resolution esophageal manometry, and upper endoscopy confirmed severe achalasia with a sigmoid esophagus (Type I according to Chicago classification). Esophagectomy was considered, but due to the patient's age and the lack of prior treatment attempts, LHM with Dor's fundoplication was performed successfully. At 24-month follow-up, the patient reported significant symptom improvement and weight gain.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

While esophagectomy was historically used for severe achalasia, LHM is increasingly being employed due to its minimally invasive nature and favorable outcomes. This case highlights the potential benefits of LHM in carefully selected patients with severe achalasia, even those with sigmoid esophagus. However, it's important to acknowledge that LHM may not be suitable for all end-stage cases, and esophagectomy might be necessary in some situations. CONCLUSIóN: Laparoscopic Heller myotomy with Dor's fundoplication is a promising treatment option for end-stage of achalasia, offering faster recovery and improved quality of life. However, further long-term studies are needed to confirm its long-term effectiveness.

Dysphagia with recurrent severe aspiration due to cervical diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (Forestier's disease)

Dysphagia is a common symptom in patients presenting to the gastroenterologist. However, extraluminal causes of dysphagia may be missed by endoluminal diagnosis alone. This case report presents a 72-year-old man with slowly progressive dysphagia that occurred with the ingestion of certain solid foods and was intermittently associated with severe aspiration. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy and barium swallow study were both normal. However, a conventional x-ray and computed tomography (CT) scan of the neck revealed diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (Forestier's disease) of the anterior cervical spine (C2-C7). Fiber endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) revealed functionally incomplete emptying of the oral cavity during swallowing, and the patient reported dysphagia score (EAT-10) was 23 (normal < 3). Surgical removal of the hyperostosis (C3-C6) resulted in immediate and sustained improvement in dysphagia at 3 months.

Achalasia: diagnostic delay and manometric characteristics with high-resolution solid-state and perfusion equipment

INTRODUCTION

the early diagnosis of achalasia requires a high degree of clinical suspicion, and delays in diagnosis are frequent. High-resolution esophageal manometry (HRM) is the gold standard for its diagnostic confirmation. There are two HRM systems, perfusion and solid-state, which allow its classification into three subtypes: I, or classical; II, or with pan-esophageal pressurization; and III, or spastic.

OBJECTIVE

to determine the clinical and manometric characteristics of the three subtypes with high-resolution perfusion and solid-state equipment and the time of evolution until diagnosis.

METHODS

this was a multicenter, observational, retrospective study of patients from the INTEGRA database of the Spanish Association of Neurogastroenterology and Motility who were diagnosed with primary achalasia confirmed by HRM, who fell under the Chicago Classification v3.0, and who had not been treated.

RESULTS

the study included 110 patients (subtype I, n = 14; subtype II, n = 73; subtype III, n = 23). The HRM equipment was perfusion for 49 and solid-state for 61. The mean age was 61.8 ± 14 years (age range 44-81), the age was lower in subtype II, and sex distribution was similar. The time of clinical evolution until diagnosis was > 12 months (51.6 %), subtype II being the one that was diagnosed earlier and the most often (66.3 %). Dysphagia was the most frequent symptom (90.5 %). According to the comparative analysis by high-resolution perfusion and solid-state esophageal manometry equipment, the baseline pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter was higher in the solid-state esophagus, but the difference was not statistically significant. The median integrated relaxation pressure at four seconds (IRP4) was similar (21 mmHg) between the perfusion and solid-state measurements. We describe the ranges of IRP4 in achalasia patients with both systems and confirm the possibility of achalasia even when IRP4 is within the normal range.

CONCLUSIONS

achalasia in our environment has a significant diagnostic delay. No significant differences were observed in the esophagogastric junction between the two groups diagnosed with perfusion and solid-state equipment.

Gastroesophageal reflux after per oral endoscopic myotomy for achalasia: Results of a monocentric cohort

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has become the first line treatment for achalasia, but controversies remain about the prevalence of gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) after the procedure. The aim of this study was to evaluate post-POEM GERD by a retrospective analysis of a single center cohort.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Achalasia patients aged 18 or above, who underwent POEM between 2012 and 2021, were included, provided they had an endoscopic control of reflux at least one year after POEM. GERD symptoms based on GerdQ questionnaire, and proton pomp inhibitors (PPI) consumption were also evaluated.

RESULTS

Among a consecutive cohort of 422 patients treated by POEM, 254 patients were included. Endoscopic results were available after a mean follow-up of 1.9 ± 1.5 years. 71/254 patients (28 %) had erosive esophagitis (86 % Los Angeles Grade A or B). At the last follow-up (mean 4.5 ± 2.2 years), clinical success of POEM (Eckardt score ≤ 3) was achieved in 79.5 % of patients. 44.5 % of patients were on PPI. Mean GerdQ score was 2.2 ± 2.7, with only 13 patients (6.5 %) with a score ≥ 8.

CONCLUSION

In this cohort of achalasia patients with an endoscopic follow-up at least 1 year after POEM, GERD did not appear a major threat concern: clinical symptoms were mild in most cases, as was the degree of erosive esophagitis. Furthermore, at the time of last follow up, less than half of patients required treatment with PPI.

Focal Distal Esophageal Dilation (Blown-Out Myotomy) After Achalasia Treatment: Prevalence and Associated Symptoms

INTRODUCTION

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) may result in a distended distal esophagus, referred to as a blown-out myotomy (BOM), the relevance of which is uncertain. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence, risk factors, and associated symptoms of BOM after achalasia treatment.

METHODS

A data set of the locally treated patients in a randomized controlled trial comparing POEM with pneumatic dilation (PD) was analyzed. A BOM is defined as a >50% increase in esophageal diameter at its widest point in the distal esophagus between the lower esophageal sphincter and 5 cm above.

RESULTS

Seventy-four patients were treated in our center, and 5-year follow-up data were available in 55 patients (32 patients [58%] randomized to POEM, 23 [42%] PD). In the group initially treated with POEM, the incidence of BOM increased from 11.5% (4/38) at 3 months, to 21.1% (8/38) at 1 year, 27.8% (10/36) at 2 years, and 31.3% (10/32) at 5 years. None of the patients treated with PD alone developed a BOM. Patients who developed a BOM had a higher total Eckardt score and Eckardt regurgitation component compared with patients who underwent POEM without BOM development (3 [2.75-3.25] vs 2 [1.75-3], P = 0.032, and 1 [0.75-1] vs 0 [0-1], P = 0.041). POEM patients with a BOM more often report reflux symptoms (85% [11/13] vs 46% [2/16], P = 0.023) and had a higher acid exposure time (24.5% [8-47] vs 6% [1.2-18.7], P = 0.027).

DISCUSSION

Thirty percent of the patients treated with POEM develop a BOM, which is associated with a higher acid exposure, more reflux symptoms, and symptoms of regurgitation.

Serra doria procedure as an alternative treatment for end stage achalasia. A case report

The standard of care for achalasia is laparoscopic Heller's cardiomyotomy. This procedure achieves satisfactory and long-standing results in over 85 % of patients. However, disease progression occurs in some patients leading to end-stage achalasia, occasionally requiring oesophagectomy. In a recent systematic review and meta-analysis of 1307 patients who underwent oesophagectomy for end-stage achalasia, the pooled prevalence of pneumonia, anastomotic leakage and mortality were 10 %, 7 % and 2 %, respectively. We present a Serra Doria procedure as an alternative 'esophagus-preserving' procedure in a 58-year-old female patient with end-stage achalasia. This advancement highlights the crucial role of personalized care and the ongoing research necessary to enhance outcomes for those suffering from this challenging condition.

Nutritional Management of Pediatric Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders

Normal and optimal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract is paramount to ensure optimal nutrition through digestion, absorption and motility function. Disruptions in these functions can lead to adverse physiological symptoms, reduced quality of life and increased nutritional risk. When disruption or dysfunction of neuromuscular function occurs, motility disorders can be classified depending on whether coordination or strength/velocity of peristalsis are predominantly impacted. However, due to their nonspecific presenting symptoms and overlap with sensory disruption, they are frequently misdiagnosed as disorders of the gut-brain interaction. Motility disorders are a prevalent issue in the pediatric population, with management varying from medical therapy to psychological therapy, dietary manipulation, surgical intervention or a multimodal approach. This narrative review aims to discuss the dietary management of common pediatric motility disorders including gastroesophageal reflux, esophageal atresia, achalasia, gastroparesis, constipation, and the less common but most severe motility disorder, pediatric intestinal pseudo-obstruction.

Timed barium esophagography to predict recurrent achalasia after peroral endoscopic myotomy: a retrospective study in Thailand

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Achalasia is a rare esophageal motility disease, for which peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has emerged as a promising treatment option; however, recurrence remains a challenge. Timed barium esophagography (TBE) is a useful diagnostic tool and potential outcome predictor of achalasia. This study aimed to determine predictive tools for recurrence after POEM.

METHODS

This retrospective study enrolled achalasia patients who underwent POEM between January 2015 and December 2021. Patients were categorized into two groups using the 1-month post-POEM Eckardt scores and TBE: the discordant group (Eckardt score improved >50%, TBE decreased <50%) and the concordant group (both Eckardt score and TBE improved >50%). Recurrence was defined as a reincrease in the Eckardt score to more than three during follow-up.

RESULTS

Complete medical records were available in 30 patients who underwent POEM. Seventeen patients (56.7%) were classified into the discordant group, while 13 patients (43.3%) were in the concordant group. The overall recurrence rate was 11.9% at 1-year, increasing to 23.8% during the extended follow-up. The discordant group had a 6.87 fold higher recurrence rate than the concordant group (52.9% vs. 7.7%, p=0.017).

CONCLUSIONS

These results strongly suggest that combining the Eckardt score with TBE can effectively predict recurrent achalasia after POEM. Patients in the discordant group had an elevated risk.

Complementary pneumatic dilations are an effective and safe treatment when laparoscopic myotomy fails: A 30-year experience at a single tertiary center

BACKGROUND

In the last 3 decades, laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) has represented the treatment of choice for esophageal achalasia, solving symptoms in most patients. Little is known about the fate of patients relapsing after LHM or their treatment. In this study, we aimed at evaluating the results of complementary pneumatic dilations (CPDs) after ineffective LHM.

METHODS

We evaluated the patients who underwent LHM with Dor fundoplication (LHD) from 1992 to 2022 and were submitted to CPD for persistent or recurrent symptoms. The patients were followed clinically and with manometry, barium swallow, and endoscopy when necessary. An Eckardt score (ES) of > 3 was used as threshold for failure.

RESULTS

Of 1420 patients undergoing LHD, 120 (8.4%) were considered failures and were offered CPD. Ten patients refused further treatment; in 5 CPD was not indicated for severe esophagitis; 1 patient had surgery for a misshaped fundoplication and 1 patient developed cancer 2 years after LHD; that leaves 103 patients who underwent a median 2 CPDs (IQR, 1-3), at a median of 15 (IQR, 8-36) months after surgery, with 3.0- to 4.0-cm Rigiflex dilator (Boston Scientific, Massachusetts, USA). No perforations were recorded. Only 6 patients were lost to follow-up. Thus, 97 were followed for a median of 37 months (IQR, 6-112) after the last CPD: 70 (72%) were asymptomatic, whereas 27 (28%) had significant persistent dysphagia (ES > 3). The only differences between the 2 groups were the ES after surgery (P < .01) and the number of required CPD. Overall, the combination of LHD + CPD provided a satisfactory outcome in 96.5% of the patients.

CONCLUSION

CPDs represent an effective and safe option to treat patients after a failed LHD: when the postsurgery ES consistently remains high and the number of CPDs required to control symptoms exceeds 2, this may suggest the need for further invasive treatments.

Gastroesophageal reflux following peroral endoscopic myotomy for achalasia: Bumps in the road to success

Achalasia can significantly impair the quality of life. The clinical presentation typically includes dysphagia to both solids and liquids, chest pain, and regurgitation. Diagnosis can be delayed in patients with atypical presentations, and they might receive a wrong diagnosis, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), owing to overlapping symptoms of both disorders. Although the cause of achalasia is poorly understood, its impact on the motility of the esophagus and gastroesophageal junction is well established. Several treatment modalities have been utilized, with the most common being surgical Heller myotomy with concomitant fundoplication and pneumatic balloon dilatation. Recently, peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has gained popularity as an effective treatment for achalasia, despite a relatively high incidence of GERD occurring after treatment compared to other modalities. The magnitude of post-POEM GERD depends on its definition and is influenced by patient and procedure-related factors. The long-term sequelae of post-POEM GERD are yet to be determined, but it appears to have a benign course and is usually manageable with clinically available modalities. Identifying risk factors for post-POEM GERD and modifying the POEM procedure in selected patients may improve the overall success of this technique.

POEM in the esophagus - How to deal with the post-POEM reflux

Reflux after peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is arguably one of the greatest concerns related to the procedure. The exact incidence is difficult to establish as reflux symptoms, esophagitis, and abnormal acid exposure correlate poorly, warranting thorough diagnostic investigation. The incidence is, however, higher than after Heller myotomy or pneumatic dilatation across all these three parameters. Although PPI are effective in the resolution of symptoms and healing of esophagitis, refractory patients exist. Esophageal hypersensitivity and acidic fermentation/esophageal stasis are most likely causes and could be diagnosed by manual analysis of pH metry tracings. Long-term complications like peptic stricture and Barrett's esophagus are rare and reported sporadically. Modifications of POEM procedure aiming to decrease post-POEM reflux led to no conclusive preferred technique. Modern investigations like endoluminal functional lumen imaging probe might help to personalize myotomy to the desired distensibility of the lower esophageal sphincter and decrease reflux.

Achalasia cardia: A case report in young female

Key Clinical Message

This case emphasizes the need for early recognition and accurate diagnosis of achalasia in young adults to avoid exacerbation of the condition and misdiagnosis as GERD. Patient outcomes and quality of life are greatly enhanced by suitable diagnostic techniques, appropriate therapy, interdisciplinary care, and comprehensive patient education along with frequent follow-ups.

Abstract

Achalasia results from the degeneration of inhibitory ganglion cells within the esophageal myenteric plexus and the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), leading to a loss of inhibitory neurons and resulting in the absence of peristalsis with failure of LES relaxation. Its origins are multifactorial, potentially involving infections, autoimmune responses, and genetics, with equal incidence in males and females. The hallmark symptoms include progressive dysphagia for solids and liquids, along with regurgitation, heartburn, and non-cardiac chest pain. A 22-year-old female patient initially diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) received proton pump inhibitors and antacid gel for persistent dysphagia and regurgitation. Subsequent tests including barium esophagogram and manometry indicated Type II Achalasia Cardia. The patient showed clinical improvement with relief of dysphagia, regurgitation, and heartburn symptoms after pneumatic balloon dilatation (PBD). She was advised to follow up after 6 months with upper gastrointestinal (UGI) endoscopy and manometry in the outpatient clinic for regular endoscopic surveillance as there is a risk of transformation to esophageal carcinoma. Diagnosing achalasia in young adults poses challenges due to its diverse presentation and resemblance to other esophageal disorders like GERD. Diagnosis relies on clinical symptoms and imaging studies such as barium esophagogram revealing a bird's beak appearance and esophageal manometry showing absent peristalsis. UGI endoscopy is needed to rule out malignancy. Treatment options include non-surgical approaches like medication and Botox injections, as well as surgical methods such as pneumatic balloon dilation, laparoscopic Heller myotomy, and per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). The treatment options depend upon the patient's condition at presentation and their individual choices. This case report emphasizes that it is crucial to consider achalasia as a potential differential diagnosis in young adults with dysphagia, especially if conventional treatments for acid peptic disorder do not alleviate symptoms. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate management can lead to significant clinical improvement and better patient outcomes.

Canadian Association of Radiologists Gastrointestinal Imaging Referral Guideline

The Canadian Association of Radiologists (CAR) Gastrointestinal Expert Panel consists of radiologists, a gastroenterologist, a general surgeon, a family physician, a patient advisor, and an epidemiologist/guideline methodologist. After developing a list of 20 clinical/diagnostic scenarios, a systematic rapid scoping review was undertaken to identify systematically produced referral guidelines that provide recommendations for one or more of these clinical/diagnostic scenarios. Recommendations from 58 guidelines and contextualization criteria in the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) for guidelines framework were used to develop 85 recommendation statements specific to the adult population across the 20 scenarios. This guideline presents the methods of development and the referral recommendations for dysphagia/dyspepsia, acute nonlocalized abdominal pain, chronic abdominal pain, inflammatory bowel disease, acute gastrointestinal bleeding, chronic gastrointestinal bleeding/anemia, abnormal liver biopsy, pancreatitis, anorectal diseases, diarrhea, fecal incontinence, and foreign body ingestion.

Research gap in esophageal achalasia: a narrative review

In recent years, new translational evidence, diagnostic techniques, and innovative therapies have shed new light on esophageal achalasia and revamped the attention on this relatively rare motility disorder. This narrative review aims to highlight the most recent progress and the areas where further research is needed. The four senior authors identified five topics commonly discussed in achalasia management: i.e. pathogenesis, role of functional lumen imaging probe in the diagnostic flow chart of achalasia, how to define the outcome of achalasia treatments, how to manage persistent chest pain after the treatment, and if achalasia patients' may benefit from a regular follow-up. We searched the bibliographic databases to identify systematic reviews, meta-analyses, randomized control trials, and original research articles in English up to December 2023. We provide a summary with the most recent findings in each of the five topics and the critical points where to address future research, such as the immune-genetic patterns of achalasia that might explain the transition among the different phenotypes, the need for a validated clinical definition of treatment success, the use of neuromodulators to manage chest pain, and the need for identifying achalasia patients at risk for cancer and who may benefit of long-term follow-up. Although undoubtedly, progress has been made on the definition and management of achalasia, unmet needs remain. Debated aspects range from mechanistic insights, symptoms, objective measure relationships, and accurate clinical responses to therapeutic interventions. Translational research is eagerly awaited to answer these unresolved questions.

Factors associated with peroral endoscopic myotomy for achalasia outcomes: systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is an emerging effective treatment for achalasia. However, a significant proportion of patients do not respond well to the treatment. After over a decade of clinical practice, potential risk factors associated with POEM failure have been identified. This meta-analysis aimed to summarize the evidence of risk factors for POEM failure.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted on PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library from inception to June 10th, 2022. We included English studies that reported POEM outcomes in achalasia patients and identified risk factors for POEM failure. Relevant information was extracted and analyzed using fixed- or randomized-effect models to pool the effect size.

RESULTS

A total of 27 studies comprising 9371 patients with achalasia were included in this review. The pooled failure rate was 8% (90% CI 7%-10%). We identified sigmoid esophagus (OR 1.90, 95% CI 1.45-2.47), type I achalasia (OR 1.30, 95% CI 1.04-1.63), and type III achalasia (OR 1.26, 95% CI 0.89-1.78) were associated with a worse clinical response. Conversely, type II achalasia was associated with a better response (OR 0.59, 95% CI 0.47-0.75). Prior treatment with Heller myotomy (OR 5.75, 95% CI 3.97-8.34) and prior balloon dilation (OR 1.18, 95% CI 1.07-1.29) were also associated with a higher risk of clinical failure.

CONCLUSION

Our meta-analysis results demonstrated that sigmoid esophagus, manometric achalasia subtype, and prior treatment were associated with POEM failure. This information could be used to guide treatment decisions and improve the success rate of POEM in achalasia patients.

ADVANCED MEGAESOPHAGUS TREATMENT: WHICH TECHNIQUE OFFERS THE BEST RESULTS? A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

BACKGROUND

Advanced megaesophagus predisposes to risks of malnutrition infections and cancer, in addition to having a significant impact on quality of life. There is currently no consensus in the literature regarding the best surgical option for advanced megaesophagus, although there is a predilection for esophagectomy, despite this surgery being associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Other surgical procedures, such as esophageal mucosectomy and Heller cardiomyotomy, have been proposed with good results.

AIMS

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature on the surgical treatment of advanced megaesophagus.

METHODS

Databases used included PubMed, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (Lilacs), Embase and Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MedLine), as well as reference research. Two reviewers selected the articles independently.

RESULTS

A total of 14 articles were chosen, which included 1,862 patients. The studies were divided into two groups: laparoscopic cardiomyotomy with fundoplication (213 patients) and major surgeries (1,649 patients). The studies yielded mostly good or excellent results regarding late outcomes in both groups. However, there was significant morbidity associated with the major surgeries group.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic Heller myotomy can be performed on patients with advanced megaesophagus, with lower rates of complications and mortality compared to major surgeries, with reservations regarding late outcomes results.

SHORT AND LONG-TERM RESULTS OF LAPAROSCOPIC ESOPHAGOCARDIOMYOTOMY WITH FUNDOPLICATION (HELLER-PINOTTI SURGERY) IN THE TREATMENT OF NON-ADVANCED ACHALASIA (MEGAESOPHAGUS)

BACKGROUND

Videolaparoscopic esophagocardiomyotomy with fundoplication has been a widely used technique for the treatment of achalasia. This study analyzes the safety and effectiveness of the technique in the treatment of non-advanced achalasia (megaesophagus) in a Brazilian federal university public hospital.

AIMS

To evaluate the short- and long-term results of videolaparoscopic treatment of non-advanced megaesophagus in a public university hospital in Brazil, employing the esophagocardiomyotomy technique with fundoplication.

METHODS

The medical records of 44 patients who underwent surgical treatment for non-advanced achalasia at the Clinical Hospital of Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU-MG), Minas Gerais, from January 2001 to July 2021 were analyzed. The following data were evaluated: gender, age, etiology, radiological classification of Rezende-Alves and Ferreira-Santos, immediate and late complications (mean follow-up of 31.4 months), need or not for conversion to open access, postoperative reflux, performance or not of endoscopic esophageal dilation in the preoperative period, postoperative mortality, frequency of pre and postoperative symptoms (persistent dysphagia, regurgitation, heartburn, vomiting, odynophagia, and weight loss), surgery time, hospital stay, duration of dysphagia, pre and postoperative weight, and Eckardt score.

RESULTS

Among the analyzed patients, 23 (52.3%) were male, and 21 (47.7%) were female, with a mean age of 50.8 years. No early complications were recorded and there were 27.2% cases of late gastroesophageal reflux. Postoperative weight gain was 81.8% and the success rate of surgery according to the Eckardt score was 84.1%.

CONCLUSIONS

Esophagocardiomyotomy with fundoplication is an effective and safe technique for the treatment of non-advanced achalasia.

Medical management of painful achalasia: a patient-driven systematic review

Achalasia is a rare esophageal disorder characterized by abnormal esophageal motility and swallowing difficulties. Pain and/or spasms often persist or recur despite effective relief of the obstruction. A survey by UK charity 'Achalasia Action' highlighted treatments for achalasia pain/spasms as a key research priority. In this patient-requested systematic review, we assessed the existing literature on pharmacological therapies for painful achalasia. A systematic review of the literature using Medline, Embase and Cochrane databases was performed to identify studies evaluating pharmacological therapies for achalasia. Methodological quality of included randomized controlled trials was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. In total, 70% (40/57) of survey respondents reported experiencing pain/spasms. A range of management strategies were reported. Thirteen studies were included in the review. Seven were randomized controlled trials. Most studies were >30 years old, had limited follow-up, and focussed on esophageal manometry as the key endpoint. Generally, studies found improvements in lower esophageal pressures with medications. Only one study evaluated pain/spasm specifically, precluding meta-analysis. Overall risk of bias was high. The achalasia patient survey identified that pain/spasms are common and difficult to treat. This patient-requested review identified a gap in the literature regarding pharmacological treatments for these symptoms. We provide an algorithm for investigating achalasia-related pain/spasms. Calcium channel blockers or nitrates may be helpful when esophageal obstruction and reflux have been excluded. We advocate for registry-based clinical trials to expand the evidence base for these patients.

Prediction, prevention and management of gastroesophageal reflux after per-oral endoscopic myotomy: An update

Achalasia cardia, the most prevalent primary esophageal motility disorder, is predominantly characterized by symptoms of dysphagia and regurgitation. The principal therapeutic approaches for achalasia encompass pneumatic dilatation (PD), Heller's myotomy, and the more recent per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). POEM has been substantiated as a safe and efficacious modality for the management of achalasia. Although POEM demonstrates superior efficacy compared to PD and an efficacy parallel to Heller's myotomy, the incidence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) following POEM is notably higher than with the aforementioned techniques. While symptomatic reflux post-POEM is relatively infrequent, the significant occurrence of erosive esophagitis and heightened esophageal acid exposure necessitates vigilant monitoring to preclude long-term GERD-related complications. Contemporary advancements in the field have enhanced our comprehension of the risk factors, diagnostic methodologies, preventative strategies, and therapeutic management of GERD subsequent to POEM. This review focuses on the limitations inherent in the 24-h pH study for evaluating post-POEM reflux, potential modifications in the POEM technique to mitigate GERD risk, and the strategies for managing reflux following POEM.

10-year follow-up results of the European Achalasia Trial: a multicentre randomised controlled trial comparing pneumatic dilation with laparoscopic Heller myotomy

OBJECTIVE

As achalasia is a chronic disorder, long-term follow-up data comparing different treatments are essential to select optimal clinical management. Here, we report on the 10-year follow-up of the European Achalasia Trial comparing endoscopic pneumodilation (PD) with laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM).

DESIGN

A total of 201 newly diagnosed patients with achalasia were randomised to either a series of PDs (n=96) or LHM (n=105). Patients completed symptom (Eckardt score) and quality-of-life questionnaires, underwent functional tests and upper endoscopy. Primary outcome was therapeutic success defined as Eckardt score <3 at yearly follow-up. Secondary outcomes were the need for retreatment, lower oesophageal sphincter pressure, oesophageal emptying, gastro-oesophageal reflux and the rate of complications.

RESULTS

After 10 years of follow-up, LHM (n=40) and PD (n=36) were equally effective in both the full analysis set (74% vs 74%, p=0.84) and the per protocol set (74% vs 86%, respectively, p=0.07). Subgroup analysis revealed that PD was superior to LHM for type 2 achalasia (p=0.03) while there was a trend, although not significant (p=0.05), that LHM performed better for type 3 achalasia. Barium column height after 5 min at timed barium oesophagram was significantly higher for patients treated with PD compared with LHM, while other parameters, including gastro-oesophageal reflux, were not different.

CONCLUSIONS

PD and LHM are equally effective even after 10 years of follow-up with limited risk to develop gastro-oesophageal reflux. Based on these data, we conclude that PD and LHM can both be proposed as initial treatment of achalasia.

Presence of esophageal contractility after achalasia treatment is associated with improved esophageal emptying

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Some achalasia patients exhibit esophageal contractile activity on follow-up after treatment, yet its importance remains unclear. We aimed to identify factors associated with presence of contractility after treatment and to assess its impact on timed barium esophagram (TBE) and clinical outcomes.

METHODS

Patients with type I or II achalasia on baseline high-resolution manometry (HRM) who completed HRM, TBE, and functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP) after treatment were retrospectively identified. Contractility was defined on post-treatment HRM as presence of at least 1 supine swallow with DCI ≥100 mmHg s cm.

KEY RESULTS

One hundred twenty-two patients were included (mean age 48 ± 17 years, 50% female). At follow-up evaluation after treatment (54% peroral endoscopic myotomy, 24% pneumatic dilation, 22% laparoscopic Heller myotomy), 61 (50%) patients had contractility on HRM. Patients with contractility (compared to those without) more frequently had type II achalasia (84% vs 57%, p = 0.001) and a post-treatment normal EGJ opening classification on FLIP (69% vs 49%; p < 0.001). In the subgroup of patients with post-treatment integrated relaxation pressure <15 mmHg and normal EGJ opening on FLIP (n = 53), those with contractility had a lower median column height on TBE at 1 min (4 vs 7 cm, p = 0.002) and 5 min (0 vs 5 cm, p = 0.001). In patients with "abnormal" EGJ metrics, patients with contractility showed lower symptom scores (median Eckardt score 2 vs 3, p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

Occurring more frequently in type II achalasia, and if adequate EGJ opening is achieved after treatment, esophageal contractility may contribute to improved esophageal emptying and improved symptoms in non-spastic achalasia. Preservation of esophageal body muscle could improve outcomes in these patients.

Factors associated with early failure of peroral endoscopic myotomy in achalasia

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Achalasia can be treated very effectively with peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM), but factors associated with early failure remain to be determined, especially in European cohorts.

METHODS

All consecutive adult patients who underwent a first POEM to treat primary achalasia were included in this multicenter retrospective study. Early failure was defined by an Eckardt score (ES) >3 at 3 months after POEM. When evaluating factors predictive of early failure, 2 cohorts were considered: one consisted of the total population, for whom only basic variables were collected, and the other a cohort built for a case-control study that included matched early-failure and early-success patients (ratio, 1:2).

RESULTS

Among 746 patients, the early failure rate was 9.4%. Predictive factors were age ≤45 years (P = .019), achalasia types I and III (P < .001), and the development of a severe adverse event during the procedure (P = .023). In the case-control study, the only additional independent risk factor for early failure was a high pre-POEM ES (P = .001). Only the retrosternal pain subscore was significantly associated with the early failure rate.

CONCLUSION

The early failure rate of POEM used to treat primary achalasia is <10%. Younger age, type I/III achalasia, and a high pre-POEM ES were significantly associated with failure.

Laparoscopic Heller-Dor myotomy in elderly achalasia patients: a single center experience with PSM analysis

INTRODUCTION

Achalasia is a rare esophageal motility disorder of unknown etiology. With the ageing of the general population, treatment in elderly patients has become increasingly common; however, the gold standard treatment in this population remains unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of laparoscopic Heller-Dor myotomy (LHM) in geriatric patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In this study, consecutive achalasia patients undergoing LHM at the University Hospital 'Federico II' of Naples from November 2018 to November 2022 were prospectively enrolled. Patients were divided into two groups based on their age at intervention: elderly (≥70 years) and younger (<70 years). The two study groups were compared by minimizing the different distribution of covariates through a propensity score matching analysis (PSM).

RESULTS

In both populations, there was a significant improvement in terms of manometric parameters and symptoms after surgery. After applying one-on-one PSM, we obtained a total population of 48 achalasia patients divided into two groups (24 patients each). No significant differences were found in terms of demographic characteristics as well as preoperative and intraoperative variables between two groups. At 12 months from surgery, integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) was significantly lower in patients ≥ 70 years (p = 0.032), while younger patients scored significantly less at the post-operative Eckardt score (p = 0.047).

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic Heller-Dor myotomy is a safe and effective treatment even in elderly patients with rapid post-operative recovery, improvement of symptoms and manometric parameters.

Surgical and per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) for the treatment of primary esophageal motility disorders: A systematic analysis of current trends in Germany between 2011 and 2019

BACKGROUND/AIMS

While surgery remains a standard treatment for primary esophageal motility disorders (PEMDs), per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has recently evolved as an alternative. Systematic data on current trends of invasive procedures for PEMDs in Germany are missing.

METHODS

Hospital discharge data were used to evaluate trends and mortality of invasive treatment options for PEMDs in Germany between 2011 and 2019.

RESULTS

4543 cases of PEMDs (achalasia: n = 4349, dyskinesia of the esophagus: n = 194) receiving open surgery (n = 200), minimal invasive surgery (n = 2366), or POEM (n = 1977) were identified. The relative proportion of POEM significantly increased from 10.9% (2011) to 65.7% (2019). Hospital mortality was 0.2%. The median duration of mechanical ventilation was significantly lower in POEM patients (29.4 hours) compared to open (274.0 hours) or minimal invasive (91.9 hours) surgery. The duration of hospitalization was lowest among POEM patients (5.7 days) compared to surgical procedures (13.7 and 7.7 days).

CONCLUSION

While the low in-hospital mortality of all procedures combined confirms the solid safety profile of invasive procedures in general, our findings show that POEM has the lowest duration of mechanical ventilation and hospitalization compared to invasive surgical options.

Conventional versus oblique fiber-sparing endoscopic myotomy for achalasia cardia: a randomized controlled trial (with videos)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

GERD is common after peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). Selective sparing of oblique fibers may reduce the incidence of reflux esophagitis after POEM. In this study, we compared the incidence of GERD between conventional myotomy (CM) versus oblique fiber-sparing (OFS) myotomy in patients with achalasia.

METHODS

Eligible patients with type I and II achalasia who underwent POEM from January 2020 to October 2020 were randomized into 2 groups (CM and OFS myotomy). Exclusion criteria were type III achalasia, sigmoid esophagus, and history of Heller's myotomy. The primary study outcome was incidence of reflux esophagitis (at least grade B) in the 2 groups. Secondary outcomes were reflux symptoms, esophageal acid exposure, clinical success, and adverse events.

RESULTS

One hundred fifteen patients were randomized into CM (n = 58) and OFS myotomy (n = 57) groups. POEM was technically successful in all patients. Overall, reflux esophagitis was found in 56 patients (48.7%). The incidence of at least grade B esophagitis was similar in both groups (CM vs OFS myotomy: 25.9% vs 31.6%, P = .541). The mean number of reflux episodes (48.2 ± 36.6 vs 48.9 ± 40.3, P = .933), increased esophageal acid exposure >6% (45.5% vs 31.7%, P = .266), and high DeMeester scores (38.6% vs 41.5%, P = .827) were similar in both groups. There was no difference in the rate of symptomatic reflux (GERD questionnaire score >7) or use of proton pump inhibitors at 1 year.

CONCLUSIONS

Sparing of sling fibers has no significant impact on the incidence of significant reflux esophagitis after POEM. Novel strategies need to be explored to prevent reflux after POEM. (Clinical trial registration number: NCT04229342.).

Single-Versus Multiple-Dose Antimicrobial Prophylaxis in Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy: A Randomized Controlled Study (SMAPP Trial)

Infections are uncommon after peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) procedure. However, prophylactic antibiotics are routinely administered for variable duration during peri-operative period. In this study, we aimed to determine the difference in the rate of infections between single (SD-A) and multiple doses (MD-A) antibiotic prophylaxis groups. The study was a prospective, randomized, non-inferiority trial conducted at a single tertiary care centre from Dec 2018 to Feb 2020. Eligible patients undergoing POEM were randomized into SD-A and MD-A groups. SD-A group received one dose of antibiotic (IIIrd gen cephalosporin) within 30-min of POEM. In the MD-A group, the same antibiotic was administered for a total of three days. Primary aim of the study was to determine the incidence of infections in the two groups. Secondary outcomes included incidence of fever (> 100 °F), inflammatory markers [erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), c-reactive protein(CRP)], serum procalcitonin and adverse events related to antibiotics. (NCT03784365). 114 patients were randomized to SD-A (57) and MD-A (57) antibiotic groups. Mean post-POEM CRP (0.8 ± 0.9 vs 1.5 ± 1.6), ESR (15.8 ± 7.8 20.6 ± 11.7) and procalcitonin (0.05 ± 0.04 0.29 ± 0.58) were significantly higher after POEM (p = 0.001). Post-POEM inflammatory markers (ESR, CRP and procalcitonin) were similar in both the groups. Fever on day-0 (10.5% vs 14%) and day-1 (1.7% vs 3.5%) was detected in similar proportion of patients. Post-POEM infections were recorded in 3.5% (1.7% vs 5.3%, p = 0.618). Single dose of antibiotic is non-inferior to multiple dose antibiotic prophylaxis. Elevation of inflammatory markers and fever after POEM represents inflammation and does not predict infection after POEM.

An overview of the efficacy, safety, and predictors of achalasia treatments

INTRODUCTION

Achalasia is a rare esophageal motility disorder characterized by abnormal esophageal peristalsis and the inability of the lower esophageal sphincter to relax, resulting in poor esophageal emptying. This can be relieved by endoscopic and surgical treatments; each comes with certain advantages and disadvantages.

AREAS COVERED

This review aims to guide the clinician in clinical decision making on the different treatment options for achalasia regarding the efficacy, safety, and important predictors.

EXPERT OPINION

Botulinum toxin injection is only recommended for a selective group of achalasia patients because of the short term effect. Pneumatic dilation improves achalasia symptoms, but this effect diminishes over time and requiring repeated dilations to maintain clinical effect. Heller myotomy combined with fundoplication and peroral endoscopic myotomy are highly effective on the long term but are more invasive than dilations. Gastro-esophageal reflux complaints are more often encountered after peroral endoscopic myotomy. Patient factors such as age, comorbidities, and type of achalasia must be taken into account when choosing a treatment. The preference of the patient is also of great importance and therefore shared decision making has to play a fundamental role in deciding about treatment.

Per-oral endoscopic myotomy in cases with prior Heller's myotomy: Outcomes at a median follow-up of 5 years

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is an established treatment for achalasia cardia. However, data on the long-term efficacy of POEM in patients with failed Heller's myotomy (HM) are limited. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term outcomes of POEM in patients with persistent or recurrent symptoms following HM.

METHODS

Data of patients with recurrence of symptoms after HM who underwent POEM (September 2013 to December 2022) were analyzed, retrospectively. Primary outcome was clinical success [Eckardt score (ES) ≤ 3]. Secondary outcomes included improvement of manometry parameters, barium emptying at 5 min and gastroesophageal reflux (esophagitis and increased esophageal acid exposure) after POEM.

RESULTS

Seventy-two cases (45.9 ± 13.4 years, 43 men) with history of HM were included in the study. The subtypes of achalasia were type 1 (40.3%), type 2 (37.5%), and unknown (19.4%). Prior treatment included HM in 48 (66.7%), HM plus pneumatic dilatation in 20 (27.8%), and HM plus pneumatic dilatation and Botox in 4 (5.5%). Technical success was achieved in all cases. Mean length of myotomy was 10.7 ± 3.3 cm, and mean procedure duration was 59.2 ± 25.9 min. There was significant improvement in ES (pre-POEM 6.5 ± 1.8 vs post-POEM 0.7 ± 0.7), lower esophageal sphincter pressure pressures (31.7 ± 12.5 vs 13.3 ± 5.7 mmHg) and barium emptying (14.2 ± 4.2 vs 2.4 ± 3.1 cm) after POEM. At a median follow-up of 63 months (IQR 40-95), clinical success (ES ≤ 3) was documented in 58 (80.6%) patients. Reflux esophagitis and increased esophageal acid exposure were recorded in 28 of 49 (57.1%) and 11 of 20 (55%) patients, respectively.

CONCLUSION

POEM is a durable treatment modality in cases with relapse of symptoms after HM.

Safety of Pneumatic Dilation in Older Adults with Achalasia: An International Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Pneumatic dilation (PD) is an effective first line treatment option for many patients with achalasia. PD use may be limited in adults with achalasia who are older than 65 because of concern for adverse events (AE), and less efficacious therapies are often utilized. We explored the periprocedural safety profile of PD in older adults.

METHODS

An international real world cross-sectional study of patients undergoing PD between 2006-2020 in two tertiary centers. Thirty-day AEs were compared between older adults (65 and older) with achalasia and younger patients.

RESULTS

A total of 252 patients underwent 319 PDs. In 319 PDs, 18 (5.7%) complications occurred: 6 (1.9%) perforations and 12 (3.8%) emergency department referrals with benign (non-perforation) chest pain, of which 9 (2.8%) were hospitalized. No bleeding or death occurred within 30 days. Perforation rates were similar in both age groups and across achalasia subtypes. Advanced age was protective of benign chest pain complications in univariate analysis, and the limited number of AEs precluded multivariable analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

The safety of PD in older adults is at least comparable to that of younger patients and should be offered as an option for definitive therapy for older patients with achalasia. Our results may affect informed consent discussions.

How to effectively use and interpret the barium swallow: Current role in esophageal dysphagia

BACKGROUND

The barium swallow is a commonly performed investigation, though recent decades have seen major advances in other esophageal diagnostic modalities.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this review is to clarify the rationale for components of the barium swallow protocol, provide guidance on interpretation of findings, and describe the current role of the barium swallow in the diagnostic paradigm for esophageal dysphagia in relation to other esophageal investigations. The barium swallow protocol, interpretation, and reporting terminology are subjective and non-standardized. Common reporting terminology and an approach to their interpretation are provided. A timed barium swallow (TBS) protocol provides more standardized assessment of esophageal emptying but does not evaluate peristalsis. Barium swallow may have higher sensitivity than endoscopy for detecting subtle strictures. Barium swallow has lower overall accuracy than high-resolution manometry for diagnosing achalasia but can help secure the diagnosis in cases of equivocal manometry. TBS has an established role in objective assessment of therapeutic response in achalasia and helps identify the cause of symptom relapse. Barium swallow has a role in the evaluating manometric esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction, in some cases helping to identify where it represents an achalasia-like syndrome. Barium swallow should be performed in dysphagia following bariatric or anti-reflux surgery, to assess for both structural and functional postsurgical abnormality. Barium swallow remains a useful investigation in esophageal dysphagia, though its role has evolved due to advancements in other diagnostics. Current evidence-based guidance regarding its strengths, weaknesses, and current role are described in this review.

Atypical presentations and pitfalls of achalasia

Achalasia is a rare disease with significant diagnostic delay and association with false diagnoses and unnecessary interventions. It remains unclear, whether atypical presentations, misinterpreted symptoms or inconclusive diagnostics are the cause. The aim of this study was the characterization of typical and atypical features of achalasia and their impact on delays, misinterpretations or false diagnoses. A retrospective analysis of prospective database over a period of 30 years was performed. Data about symptoms, delays and false diagnoses were obtained and correlated with manometric, endoscopic and radiologic findings. Totally, 300 patients with achalasia were included. Typical symptoms (dysphagia, regurgitation, weight loss and retrosternal pain) were present in 98.7%, 88%, 58.4% and 52.4%. The mean diagnostic delay was 4.7 years. Atypical symptoms were found in 61.7% and led to a delay of 6 months. Atypical gastrointestinal symptoms were common (43%), mostly 'heartburn' (16.3%), 'vomiting' (15.3%) or belching (7.7%). A single false diagnosis occurred in 26%, multiple in 16%. Major gastrointestinal misdiagnoses were GERD in 16.7% and eosinophilic esophagitis in 4%. Other false diagnosis affected ENT-, psychiatric, neurologic, cardiologic or thyroid diseases. Pitfalls were the description of 'heartburn' or 'nausea'. Tertiary contractions at barium swallows, hiatal hernias and 'reflux-like' changes at endoscopy or eosinophils in the biopsies were misleading. Atypical symptoms are common in achalasia, but they are not the sole source for diagnostic delays. Misleading descriptions of typical symptoms or misinterpretation of diagnostic studies contribute to false diagnoses and delays.

A case report of end-stage achalasia: Conservative option as the new surgical standard

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

End-stage achalasia is a rare disease, consisting of a functional impairment of the esophagus which becomes dilated with a sigmoid shape. While esophagectomy was considered for a long time as the principal surgical procedure in end-stage achalasia, recent literature results demonstrate that laparoscopic Heller Dor (LHD) could be an advocated alternative with acceptable functional results.

CASE PRESENTATION

We present the case of an eighty-three-year-old male, an elderly patient, who had been complaining for one year of dysphagia and general status loss. Endoscopy, manometry then a barium X-ray confirmed end-stage achalasia. The patient had LHD with an improvement of symptomatology post-operatively.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

Achalasia is a rare disease affecting oesophagal motility. The diagnosis is suggested clinically and confirmed by a wide range of tests notably esophagogastroduodenoscopy, barium swallow and manometry. The diagnosis of achalasia is classically made by demonstrating impaired relaxation of the lower oesophagal sphincter and absent peristalsis in the oesophagal manometry. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy is made mainly to eliminate the diagnosis of oesophagal cancer. Barium swallow, however, is done to appreciate the impact of achalasia on the rest of the esophagus.

CONCLUSION

Our case highlights the satisfying results after an LHD which is an alternative to esophagectomy especially in elderlies with high risk.

Can esophageal symptoms be associated with sleep disorders in esophageal rare diseases? A prospective case-control study across achalasia, eosinophilic esophagitis and gastroesophageal reflux disease

BACKGROUND

The association between sleep disorders and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has been the subject of several studies; however, quality of sleep has been under investigated in adult patients with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) and achalasia (Ach). This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of sleep disturbances in patients with EoE and Ach compared to GERD patients and their associations with esophageal symptoms.

METHODS

Thirty Ach patients and 20 EoE patients were consecutively enrolled and compared to a control group of 46 GERD patients. All patients underwent a standardized questionnaire investigating the intensity-frequency scores (from 0 to 6) of esophageal symptoms, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaire to assess sleep quality, a SF-36 survey to investigate health-related quality of life (both physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) component scales), Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) to assess the presence of depression and anxiety.

RESULTS

The prevalence of sleep disturbances was 66.7% in Ach, 50% in EoE, and 60% in GERD patients (P=0.5). PCS and MCS significantly correlated with depression and anxiety levels. Ach patients showed significantly higher intensity-frequency scores of dysphagia for solids (Scheffè P<0.001) and liquids (Scheffè P<0.001) than EoE and GERD patients. No differences were found in the intensity-frequency scores of the esophageal symptoms among the three groups. There was a significant association between worst quality of sleep and higher intensity-frequency scores of regurgitation.

CONCLUSIONS

Sleep disturbances are common with Ach and EoE, similar to GERD patients. Moreover, there is a significant association between regurgitation, a typical GERD symptom, and poor quality of sleep, independent from diagnosis.

[Esophageal Motility Disorders - What's New?]

Esophageal motor disorders are an important cause of dysphagia but can also be associated with retrosternal pain and heartburn as well as regurgitation. In extreme cases, patients are not able to eat appropriately and lose weight. Repetitive aspiration can occur and may cause pulmonological complications. Achalasia represents the most important and best-defined esophageal motor disorder and is characterized by insufficient relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter in combination with typical disturbances of esophageal peristalsis. Additional defined motor disorders are distal esophageal spasm, hypercontractile esophagus, absent contractility and ineffective peristalsis. Patients with appropriate symptoms should primarily undergo esophagogastroduodenoscopy for exclusion of e.g., tumors and esophagitis. Esophageal high-resolution manometry is the reference method for diagnosis and characterization of motor disorders in non-obstructive dysphagia. An esophagogram with barium swallow may deliver complementary information or may be used if manometry is not available. Balloon dilatation and Heller myotomy are long established and more or less equally effective therapeutic options for patients with achalasia. Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) enhances the therapeutic armamentarium for achalasia and hypertensive/spastic motor disorders since 2010. For hypotensive motor disorders, which may occur as a complication of e.g., rheumatological diseases or idiopathically, therapeutic options are still limited.

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) for esophageal diverticula

Esophageal diverticula (ED) are uncommon, mostly seen in elderly and can present with a multitude of symptoms. Of the three types of ED, epiphrenic and mid-esophageal diverticulum are still rare. These are often associated with esophageal motility disorder, which contributes to its development. The key step in the management of such symptomatic ED is the division of the septum and tackling the underlying motility dysfunction, if any. Traditional surgical options have high morbidity and mortality while flexible endoscopic septal division cannot adequately manage epiphrenic diverticulum with motility dysfunction. The technique of submucosal space creation and peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has been used to treat a host of esophageal diseases such as achalasia. POEM has been recently described for the management of ED. Two different strategies have been described for tackling using POEM, namely, diverticular POEM (D-POEM) and salvage POEM (S-POEM). While D-POEM entails division of the septum and esophageal myotomy, S-POEM requires only esophageal myotomy without septum division. Multiple retrospective studies in the recent years have described use of POEM for the management of different types of ED with good safety and efficacy with low recurrence rate. This review encompasses a detailed account of the technical steps, pre- and post-procedure evaluation and literature review of safety, efficacy, adverse events, and recurrence rates of the use of POEM for ephiprenic and mid-esophageal diverticulum. We have also proposed a management algorithm based on the type of underlying motility dysfunction and the size of the diverticulum.

Post-POEM Contrast-Enhanced Swallow Study: Is It Always Necessary?

BACKGROUND

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is rapidly becoming the procedure of choice for treating esophageal achalasia. In most centers, contrast-enhanced swallow studies (CESS) are routinely performed postoperatively to confirm mucosal integrity. The aim of this study was to determine the necessity of performing these studies routinely after POEM.

METHODS

A retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database of patients who underwent POEM between December 2012 and November 2020 was performed. All patients underwent a CESS on the first postoperative day. Medical records including vital signs, complete blood count, and POD-1 CESS were evaluated.

RESULTS

One hundred thirty-four consecutive patients were included in the study. Sixty-nine (51.49%) CESS showed abnormal findings; while most findings did not change the postoperative course, five (7.2%) demonstrated tunnel leaks, which did alter the overall management. Screening patients for fever, tachycardia, or leukocytosis on POD-1 had a 100% sensitivity and a 62% specificity for finding a clinically significant complication on CESS.

CONCLUSIONS

The study findings suggest that performing routine contrast-enhanced swallow studies on all patients is not necessary following POEM, as leaks can be screened for by clinical or laboratory abnormalities. Herein, we propose an algorithm based on objective measurable findings for the selection of patients who should undergo CESS.

Pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment progress of achalasia of cardia

Achalasia cardia, type of esophageal dynamic disorder, is a relatively rare primary motor esophageal disease characterized by the functional loss of plexus ganglion cells in the distal esophagus and lower esophageal sphincter. Loss of function of the distal and lower esophageal sphincter ganglion cells is the main cause of achalasia cardia, and is more likely to occur in the elderly. Histological changes in the esophageal mucosa are considered pathogenic; however, studies have found that inflammation and genetic changes at the molecular level may also cause achalasia cardia, resulting in dysphagia, reflux, aspiration, retrosternal pain, and weight loss. Currently, the treatment options for achalasia focus on reducing the resting pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter, helping to empty the esophagus and relieve symptoms. Treatment measures include botulinum toxin injection, inflatable dilation, stent insertion, and surgical myotomy (open or laparoscopic). Surgical procedures are often subject to controversy owing to concerns about safety and effectiveness, particularly in older patients. Herein, we review clinical epidemiological and experimental data to determine the prevalence, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnostic criteria, and treatment options for achalasia to support its clinical management.

Long-term Outcome of Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy in Esophageal Motility Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is an established treatment for achalasia. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to analyze the mid and long-term outcomes of POEM in esophageal motility disorders.

METHODS

Literature search was performed in databases including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane databases, and Google scholar from January 2010 to May 2021. The primary objective of the study was the clinical success (Eckardt score ≤3 or <4) at mid-term (30 to 60 mo) and long-term (>60 mo) follow-up after POEM. Secondary objectives included post-POEM gastroesophageal reflux (GER) as evaluated by symptoms, increased esophageal acid exposure, and reflux esophagitis.

RESULTS

Seventeen studies with 3591 patients were included in the review. Subtypes of motility disorders were type I (27%), type II (54.5%), type III (10.7%), distal esophageal spasm/Jackhammer esophagus (2%), and esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (17.5%). Pooled mean follow-up duration was 48.9 months (95% CI, 40.02-57.75). Pooled rate of clinical success at mid-term follow-up was 87% (95% CI, 81-91; I2 , 86%) and long-term was 84% (95% CI, 76-89; I2 , 47%). In nonachalasia motility disorders (esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction, distal esophageal spasm, and Jackhammer esophagus), pooled rate of clinical success was 77% (95% CI, 65-85; I2 , 0%). GER as estimated by symptoms was 23% (95% CI, 19-27; I2 , 74%), erosive esophagitis was 27% (95% CI, 18-38%; I2 , 91%), and increased esophageal acid exposure was 41% (95% CI, 30-52; I2 , 88%).

CONCLUSION

POEM is a durable treatment option in cases with achalasia. One-fourth of patients suffer from erosive GER in the long-term and success rates are lower in nonachalasia esophageal motility disorders.

Surveillance Endoscopy After Foregut Surgery: Is It Necessary?

Patients undergoing foregut surgeries can have de novo findings or worsening of underlying upper gastrointestinal pathologies including Barrett’s esophagus and gastric intestinal metaplasia. These changes carry a potentially increased risk for malignancy development in the future raising the question of the utility of post-operative surveillance endoscopy after esophagectomy, bariatric and metabolic surgeries (Sleeve gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass), achalasia treatment, and anti-reflux surgery. In this narrative review, we conduct a literature exploration of available data on post-operative endoscopic surveillance findings following the procedures summarizing the prevalence of upper gastrointestinal pathologies and recommendations on the utility of postoperative endoscopy from established medical societies.