BACKGROUND Achalasia is associated with high risk of esophageal carcinoma.However,the optimal endoscopic surgery for patients with early esophageal carcinoma concomitant with achalasia remains unclear.CASE SUMMARY A c...BACKGROUND Achalasia is associated with high risk of esophageal carcinoma.However,the optimal endoscopic surgery for patients with early esophageal carcinoma concomitant with achalasia remains unclear.CASE SUMMARY A combination of concurrent endoscopic submucosal dissection(ESD)and modified peroral endoscopic myotomy(POEM)was performed on a 62-year-old male,who presented with multiple early esophageal carcinomas concomitant with achalasia.The patient exhibited an improvement in feeding obstruction,and presented no evidence of disease during the 3-year follow-up.CONCLUSION The combination of ESD and POEM is a feasible treatment modality for patients with early esophageal carcinoma concomitant with achalasia.展开更多
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...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.展开更多
In general,the treatment methods for esophageal achalasia are largely classified into four groups,including drug therapy using nitrite or a calcium channel blocker,botulinum toxin injection,endoscopic therapy such as ...In general,the treatment methods for esophageal achalasia are largely classified into four groups,including drug therapy using nitrite or a calcium channel blocker,botulinum toxin injection,endoscopic therapy such as endoscopic balloon dilation,and surgery. Various studies have suggested that the most effective treatment of esophageal achalasia is surgical therapy. The basic concept of this surgical therapy has not changed since Heller proposed esophageal myotomy for the purpose of resolution of lower esophageal obstruction for the first time in 1913,but the most common approach has changed from openchest surgery to laparoscopic surgery. Currently,the laparoscopic surgery has been the procedure of choice for the treatment of esophageal achalasia. During the process of the transition from open-chest surgery to laparotomy,to thoracoscopic surgery,and to laparoscopic surgery,the necessity of combining antireflux surgery has been recognized. There is some debate as to which type of antireflux surgery should be selected. The Toupet fundoplication may be the most effective in prevention of postoperative antireflux,but many medical institutions have selected the Dor fundoplication which covers the mucosal surface exposed by myotomy. Recently,a new endoscopic approach,peroral endoscopic myotomy(POEM),has received attention. Future studies should examine the long-term outcomes and whether POEM becomes the gold standard for the treatment of esophageal achalasia.展开更多
AIM: Achalasia is the best known primary motor disorder of the esophagus in which the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) has abnormally high resting pressure and incomplete relaxation with swallowing. Pneumatic dilatati...AIM: Achalasia is the best known primary motor disorder of the esophagus in which the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) has abnormally high resting pressure and incomplete relaxation with swallowing. Pneumatic dilatation remains the first choice of treatment. The aims of this study were to determine the long term clinical outcome of treating achalasia initially with pneumatic dilatation and usefulness of pneumatic dilatation technique under endoscopic observation without fluoroscopy. METHODS: A total of 65 dilatations were performed in 43 patients with achalasia [23 males and 20 females, the mean age was 43 years (range, 19-73)]. All patients underwent an initial dilatation by inflating a 30mm balloon to 15 psi under endoscopic control. The need for subsequent dilatation was based on symptom assessment. A 3.5cm balloon was used for repeat procedures. RESULTS: The 30mm balloon achieved a satisfactory result in 24 patients (54%) and the 35mm ballon in 78% of the remainder (14/18). Esophageal perforation as a short-term complication was observed in one patient (2.3%). The only late complication encountered was gastroesophageal reflux in 2(4%) patients with a good response to dilatation. The mean follow-up period was 2.4 years (6mo-5years). Of the patients studied, 38(88%) were relieved of their symptoms after only one or two sessions. Five patients were referred for surgery (one for esophageal perforation and four for persistent or recurrent symptoms). Among the patients whose follow up information was available, the percentage of patients in remission was 79% (19/24) at 1year and 54% (7/13) at 5 years. CONCLUSION: Performing balloon dilatation under endoscopic observation as an outpatient procedure is simple, safe and efficacious for treating patients with achalasia and referral of surgical myotomy should be considered for patients who do not respond to medical therapy or individuals that donot desire pneumatic dilatations.展开更多
Achalasia is generally accepted as a condition associated with an increased risk for developing esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. In our paper, we introduced an achalasia patient combined with synchronous early esop...Achalasia is generally accepted as a condition associated with an increased risk for developing esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. In our paper, we introduced an achalasia patient combined with synchronous early esophageal neoplasms. We performed a combination of concurrent endoscopic submucosal dissection(ESD) and peroral endoscopic myotomy(POEM). No complications other than postoperative pain that needed morphine treatment for two days had occurred. Dysphagia was significantly improved. Neither reflux nor cough occurred. The short-term efficacy and safety of our case is favorable and suggests that concurrent ESD and POEM could be a treatment option to such patients.展开更多
A 54-year-old man was referred for ablation of symptomatic drug-refractory long-lasting persistent atrial fibrillation. His past medical history was negative for cardiac disease but included a diagnosis of esophageal ...A 54-year-old man was referred for ablation of symptomatic drug-refractory long-lasting persistent atrial fibrillation. His past medical history was negative for cardiac disease but included a diagnosis of esophageal achalasia. The patient underwent an ablation procedure, guided by barium esophagram, including isolation of the pulmonary veins, ablation of complex fractionated left atrial electrograms recorded on the sep-tal wall and, finally, linear ablation of the cavo-tricuspid isthmus. The ablation procedure was performed with multielectrode ablation catheters using duty-cycled bipolar/unipolar radiofrequency energy. During 6 months of follow-up no recurrences of atrial fibrillation were documented. The reported case demonstrates how an ablation procedure for long-standing persistent AF may be safely performed even in a patient presenting with a achalasia, outlining the mega-esophagus position with a simple barium paste.展开更多
Recent advances in the treatment of achalasia include the use of high-resolution manometry to predict the outcome of patients and the introduction of peroral endoscopic myotomy(POEM).The first multicenter randomized,c...Recent advances in the treatment of achalasia include the use of high-resolution manometry to predict the outcome of patients and the introduction of peroral endoscopic myotomy(POEM).The first multicenter randomized,controlled,2-year follow-up study conducted by the European Achalasia Trial group indicated that laparoscopic Heller myotomy(LHM)was not superior to pneumatic dilations(PD).Publications on the long-term success of laparoscopic surgery continue to emerge.In addition,laparoscopic single-site surgery is applicable to advanced laparoscopic operations such as LHM and anterior fundoplication.The optimal treatment option is an ongoing matter of debate.In this review,we provide an update of the current progress in the treatment of esophageal achalasia.Unless new conclusive data prove otherwise,LHM is considered the most durable treatment for achalasia at the expense of increased reflux-associated complications.However,PD is the first choice for non-surgical treatment and is more costeffective.Repeated PD according to an"on-demand"strategy based on symptom recurrence can achieve long-term remission.Decision making should be based on clinical evidence that identifies a subcategory of patients who would benefit from specific treatment options.POEM has shown promise but its long-term efficacy and safety need to be assessed further.展开更多
Pneumatic dilation(PD) is considered to be the first line nonsurgical therapy for achalasia.The principle of the procedure is to weaken the lower esophageal sphincter by tearing its muscle fibers by generating radial ...Pneumatic dilation(PD) is considered to be the first line nonsurgical therapy for achalasia.The principle of the procedure is to weaken the lower esophageal sphincter by tearing its muscle fibers by generating radial force.The endoscope-guided procedure is done without fluoroscopic control.Clinicians usually use a lowcompliance balloon such as Rigiflex dilator to perform endoscope-guided PD for the treatment of esophageal achalasia.It has the advantage of determining mucosal injury during the dilation process,so that a repeat endoscopy is not needed to assess the mucosal tearing.Previous studies have shown that endoscope-guided PD is an efficient and safe nonsurgical therapy with results that compare well with other treatment modalities.Although the results may be promising,long-term follow-up is required in the near future.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the relationship between upper esophageal sphincter abnormalities achalasia treatment METHODS: We performed a retrospective study of 41 consecutive patients referred for high resolution esophageal ...AIM: To investigate the relationship between upper esophageal sphincter abnormalities achalasia treatment METHODS: We performed a retrospective study of 41 consecutive patients referred for high resolution esophageal manometry with a final manometric diagnosis of achalasia. Patients were sub-divided by presence or absence of Upper esophageal sphincter(UES) abnormality, and clinical and manometric profiles were compared.Correlation between UES abnormality and sub-type(i.e.,hypertensive, hypotensive or impaired relaxation) and a number of variables, including qualitative treatment response, achalasia sub-type, co-morbid medical illness,psychiatric illness, surgical history, dominant presentingsymptom, treatment type, age and gender were also evaluated.RESULTS: Among all 41 patients, 24(58.54%) had a UES abnormality present. There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of age, gender or any other clinical or demographic profiles. Among those with UES abnormalities, the majority were either hypertensive(41.67%) or had impaired relaxation(37.5%) as compared to hypotensive(20.83%), although this did not reach statistical significance(P = 0.42). There was no specific association between treatment response and treatment type received; however, there was a significant association between UES abnormalities and treatment response. In patients with achalasia and concomitant UES abnormalities, 87.5% had poor treatment response, while only 12.5% had favorable response. In contrast, in patients with achalasia and no UES abnormalities, the majority(78.57%) had good treatment response, as compared to 21.43% with poor treatment response(P = 0.0001). After controlling for achalasia sub-type, those with UES abnormality had 26 times greater odds of poor treatment response than those with no UES abnormality(P = 0.009). Similarly, after controlling for treatment type, those with UES abnormality had 13.9 times greater odds of poor treatment response compared to those with no UES abnormality(P = 0.017).CONCLUSION: The presence of UES abnormalities in patients with achalasia significantly predicted poorer treatment response as compared to those with normal UES function.展开更多
A 62-year-old male patient was admitted to our hospital due to severe chest pain,odynophagia,and hematemesis.Chest computed tomography showed an esophageal submucosal tumor.Esophagogastroduodenoscopy(EGD) revealed a l...A 62-year-old male patient was admitted to our hospital due to severe chest pain,odynophagia,and hematemesis.Chest computed tomography showed an esophageal submucosal tumor.Esophagogastroduodenoscopy(EGD) revealed a longitudinal purplish bulging tumor of the esophagus.Endoscopic ultrasound(EUS) showed a mixed echoic tumor with partial liquefaction from the submucosal layer.The patient was diagnosed with esophageal intramural hematoma as well as achalasia by upper gastrointestinal endoscopy,esophagography and esophageal manometry.The patient was managed conservatively with intravenous nutrition,and oral feeding was discontinued.Follow-up EGD and EUS showed complete recovery of the esophageal wall,and finally,the patient underwent endoscopic dilatation for achalasia.The patient was symptom free at the time when we wrote this manuscript.展开更多
INTRODUCTIONThe origins of oesophageal surgery ,like most surgical treatments ,are based in the treatment of traumatic injury .The Smith Surgical Papyrus describes the examination, diagnosis and treatment of 'a ga...INTRODUCTIONThe origins of oesophageal surgery ,like most surgical treatments ,are based in the treatment of traumatic injury .The Smith Surgical Papyrus describes the examination, diagnosis and treatment of 'a gaping wound of throat, penetrating the gullet' [1].展开更多
BACKGROUND For recurrent achalasia after initial peroral endoscopic myotomy(POEM)failure,repeat POEM(Re-POEM)has been reported as a treatment option.However,severe esophageal interlayer adhesions caused by previous pr...BACKGROUND For recurrent achalasia after initial peroral endoscopic myotomy(POEM)failure,repeat POEM(Re-POEM)has been reported as a treatment option.However,severe esophageal interlayer adhesions caused by previous procedures impede the successful establishment of a submucosal tunnel and lead to aborted Re-POEM procedures.Our team previously described POEM with simultaneous submucosal and muscle dissection(POEM-SSMD)as a feasible solution for achalasia with severe interlayer adhesions.AIM To investigate the effectiveness and safety of Re-POEM with simultaneous submucosal and muscle dissection(Re-POEM-SSMD).METHODS A total of 1049 patients with achalasia who underwent successful endoscopic myotomy at the Digestive Endoscopic Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital from December 2014 to May 2022 were reviewed.Patients with recurrent achalasia who experienced initial POEM clinical failure were retrospectively included in this study.The primary endpoint was retreatment clinical success,defined as an Eckardt score≤3 during the postretreatment follow-up and no need for additional treatment.Procedure-related adverse events,changes in manometric lower esophageal sphincter(LES)pressure and reflux complications,as well as procedure-related parameters,were recorded.RESULTS Sixteen patients underwent Re-POEM(9 patients)or Re-POEM-SSMD(7 patients)successfully at a median of 45.5 mo(range,4-95 mo)after initial POEM.During a median followup period of 31 mo(range,7-96 mo),clinical success(Eckardt score≤3)was achieved in 8(88.9%)and 6(85.7%)patients after Re-POEM and Re-POEM-SSMD,respectively(P=0.849).The median Eckardt score dropped from 4(range,3-8)at preretreatment to 1(range,0-5)at postretreatment in the Re-POEM group(P=0.025)and from 5(range,2-8)to 2(range,0-4)in the Re-POEM-SSMD group(P<0.001).The mean manometric LES pressure decreased from 23.78±9.04 mmHg to 11.45±5.37 mmHg after Re-POEM(P<0.001)and from 26.80±7.48 mmHg to 11.05±4.38 mmHg after Re-POEM-SSMD(P<0.001).No serious adverse events were recorded in both groups.CONCLUSION In conclusion,Re-POEM-SSMD appears to be a safe and effective salvage therapy for recurrent achalasia with severe interlayer adhesions.展开更多
There have been some breakthroughs in the diagnosis and treatment of esophageal achalasia in the past few years.First,the introduction of high-resolution manometry with pressure topography plotting as a new diagnostic...There have been some breakthroughs in the diagnosis and treatment of esophageal achalasia in the past few years.First,the introduction of high-resolution manometry with pressure topography plotting as a new diagnostic tool has made it possible to classify achalasia into three subtypes.The most favorable outcome is predicted for patients receiving treatment for type Ⅱ achalasia (achalasia with compression).Patients with typeⅠ(classic achalasia) and type Ⅲ achalasia (spastic achalasia) experience a less favorable outcome.Second,the first multicenter randomized controlled trial published by the European Achalasia Trial group reported 2-year follow-up results indicating that laparoscopic Heller myotomy was not superior to endoscopic pneumatic dilation (PD).Although the follow-up period was not long enough to reach a convincing conclusion,it merits the continued use of PD as a generally available technique in gastroenterology.Third,the novelendoscopic technique peroral endoscopic myotomy is a promising option for treating achalasia,but it requires increased experience and cautious evaluation.Despite all this good news,the bottom line is a real break-through from the basic studies to identify the actual cause of achalasia that may impede treatment success is still anticipated.展开更多
Thanks to the development of minimally invasive surgery, the last 20 years have witnessed a change in the treatment algorithm of benign esophageal disorders. Today a laparoscopic operation is the treatment of choice f...Thanks to the development of minimally invasive surgery, the last 20 years have witnessed a change in the treatment algorithm of benign esophageal disorders. Today a laparoscopic operation is the treatment of choice for esophageal achalasia and for most patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease. Because the pathogenesis of achalasia is unknown, treatment is palliative and aims to improve esophageal emptying by decreasing the functional obstruction at the level of the gastro-esophageal junction. The refinement of minimally invasive techniques accompanied by large, multiple randomized control trials with long-term outcome has allowed the laparoscopic Heller myotomy and partial fundoplication to become the treatment of choice for achalasia compared to endoscopic procedures, including endoscopic botulinum toxin injection and pneumatic dilatation. Patients with suspected gastroesophageal reflux need to undergo a thorough preoperative workup. After establishing diagnosis, treatment for gastroesophageal reflux should be individualized to patient characteristics and a decision about an operation made jointly between surgeon and patient. The indications for surgery have changed in the last twenty years. In the past, surgery was often considered for patients who did not respond well to acid reducing medications. Today, the best candidate for surgery is the patient who has excellent control of symptoms with proton pump inhibitors. The minimally invasive approach to antireflux surgery has allowed surgeons to control reflux in a safe manner, with excellent long term outcomes. Like achalasia and gastroesophageal reflux, the treatment of patients with paraesophageal hernias has also seen a major evolution. The laparoscopic approach has been shown to be safe, and durable, with good relief of symptoms over the long-term. The most significant controversy with laparoscopic paraesophageal hernia repair is the optimal crural repair. This manuscript reviews the evolution of these techniques.展开更多
AIM: To assess the outcome of different treatments in patients admitted for esophageal achalasia in the United States.METHODS: This is a retrospective analysis using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample over an 8-year peri...AIM: To assess the outcome of different treatments in patients admitted for esophageal achalasia in the United States.METHODS: This is a retrospective analysis using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample over an 8-year period(2003-2010). Patients admitted with a primary diagnosis of achalasia were divided into 3 groups based on their treatment:(1) Group 1: patients who underwent Heller myotomy during their hospital stay;(2) Group 2: patients who underwent esophagectomy; and(3) Group 3: patients not undergoing surgical treatment. Primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes included length of stay(LOS), discharge destination and total hospital charges.RESULTS: Among 27141 patients admitted with achalasia, nearly half(48.5%) underwent Heller myotomy, 2.5% underwent esophagectomy and 49.0% had endoscopic or other treatment. Patients in group 1 were younger, healthier, and had the lowest mortality when compared with the other two groups. Group 2 had the highest LOS and hospital charges among all groups. Group 3 had the highest mortality(1.2%, P < 0.001) and the lowest home discharge rate(78.8%) when compared to the other groups. The most frequently performed procedures among group 3 were esophageal dilatation(25.9%) and injection(13.3%). Among patients who died in this group the most common associated morbidities included acute respiratory failure, sepsis and aspiration pneumonia. CONCLUSION: Surgery for achalasia carries exceedingly low mortality in the modern era; however, in complicated patients, even less invasive treatments are burdened bysignificant mortality and morbidity.展开更多
Intramural hematoma of the esophagus is a rare but well described type of acute injury of the esophageal wall and it is more frequently being recognized throughout the world. Patients usually present with acute retros...Intramural hematoma of the esophagus is a rare but well described type of acute injury of the esophageal wall and it is more frequently being recognized throughout the world. Patients usually present with acute retrosternal or epigastric pain, minor hematemesis and dysphagia. The condition is mostly seen in women with abnormal coagulation and it can either occur spontaneous or induced by trauma or transesopha-geal procedures. It is associated with food impaction and vomiting. Esophageal intramural hematoma has also been reported in young and healthy patients. Case reports with coexisting achalasia are limited. Management is conservative and its course is benign.展开更多
BACKGROUND Achalasia is a rare benign esophageal motor disorder characterized by incomplete relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter(LES). The treatment of achalasia is not curative, but rather is aimed at reducin...BACKGROUND Achalasia is a rare benign esophageal motor disorder characterized by incomplete relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter(LES). The treatment of achalasia is not curative, but rather is aimed at reducing LES pressure. In patients who have failed noninvasive therapy, surgery should be considered. Myotomy with partial fundoplication has been considered the first-line treatment for non-advanced achalasia. Recently, peroral endoscopic myotomy(POEM), a technique that employs the principles of submucosal endoscopy to perform the equivalent of a surgical myotomy,has emerged as a promising minimally invasive technique for the management of this condition.AIM To compare POEM and laparoscopic myotomy and partial fundoplication(LM-PF) regarding their efficacy and outcomes for the treatment of achalasia.METHODS Forty treatment-naive adult patients who had been diagnosed with achalasia based on clinical and manometric criteria(dysphagia score ≥ II and Eckardt score > 3) were randomized to undergo either LM-PF or POEM. The outcome measures were anesthesia time, procedure time, symptom improvement, reflux esophagitis(as determined with the Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Questionnaire), barium column height at 1 and 5 min(on a barium esophagogram), pressure at the LES, the occurrence of adverse events(AEs), length of stay(LOS), and quality of life(QoL).RESULTS There were no statistically significant differences between the LM-PF and POEM groups regarding symptom improvement at 1, 6, and 12 mo of follow-up(P = 0.192, P = 0.242, and P = 0.242, respectively). However, the rates of reflux esophagitis at 1, 6, and 12 mo of follow-up were significantly higher in the POEM group(P = 0.014, P < 0.001, and P = 0.002, respectively). There were also no statistical differences regarding the manometry values, the occurrence of AEs, or LOS. Anesthesia time and procedure time were significantly shorter in the POEM group than in the LM-PF group(185.00 ± 56.89 and 95.70 ± 30.47 min vs 296.75 ± 56.13 and 218.75 ± 50.88 min,respectively;P = 0.001 for both). In the POEM group, there were improvements in all domains of the QoL questionnaire, whereas there were improvements in only three domains in the LM-PF group.CONCLUSION POEM and LM-PF appear to be equally effective in controlling the symptoms of achalasia,shortening LOS, and minimizing AEs. Nevertheless, POEM has the advantage of improving all domains of QoL, and shortening anesthesia and procedure times but with a significantly higher rate of gastroesophageal reflux.展开更多
BACKGROUND Little is known about the clinical significance of upper esophageal sphincter(UES)motility disorders and their association with the treatment response of typeⅡachalasia.None of the three versions of the Ch...BACKGROUND Little is known about the clinical significance of upper esophageal sphincter(UES)motility disorders and their association with the treatment response of typeⅡachalasia.None of the three versions of the Chicago Classification of Esophageal Motility Disorders has defined UES abnormality metrics or their function.UES abnormalities exist in some patients and indicate a clinically significant problem in patients with achalasia.AIM To demonstrate the manometric differentiation on high-resolution esophageal manometry between subjects with abnormal UES and normal UES,and the association between UES type and the treatment response of typeⅡachalasia.METHODS In total,498 consecutive patients referred for high-resolution esophageal manometry were analyzed retrospectively.The patients were divided into two groups,those with normal and abnormal UES function.UES parameters were analyzed after determining lower esophageal sphincter(LES)function.Patients with typeⅡachalasia underwent pneumatic dilation for treatment.Using mixed model analyses,correlations between abnormal UES and treatment response were calculated among subjects with typeⅡachalasia.RESULTS Of the 498 consecutive patients,246(49.40%)were found to have UES abnormalities.Impaired relaxation alone was the most common UES abnormality(52.85%,n=130).The incidence rate of typeⅡachalasia was significantly higher in subjects with abnormal UES than those with normal UES(9.77%vs 2.58%,P=0.01).After pneumatic dilation,LES resting pressure,LES integrated relaxation pressure,and UES residual pressure were significantly decreased(41.91±9.20 vs 26.18±13.08,38.94±10.28 vs 16.71±5.65,and 11.18±7.93 vs 5.35±4.77,respectively,P<0.05).According to the Eckardt score,subjects with typeⅡachalasia and abnormal UES presented a significantly poorer treatment response than those with normal UES(83.33%vs 0.00%,P<0.05).CONCLUSION Impaired relaxation alone is the most common UES abnormality.The incidence of typeⅡachalasia is associated with abnormal UES.TypeⅡachalasia with abnormal UES has a poorer treatment response,which is a potentially prognostic indicator of treatment for this disease.展开更多
Esophageal diverticula are rare conditions that cause esophageal symptoms, such as dysphagia, regurgitation, and chest pain. They are classified according to their location and characteristic pathophysiology into thre...Esophageal diverticula are rare conditions that cause esophageal symptoms, such as dysphagia, regurgitation, and chest pain. They are classified according to their location and characteristic pathophysiology into three types: epiphrenic diverticulum, Zenker's diverticulum, and Rokitansky diverticulum. The former two disorders take the form of protrusions, and symptomatic cases require interventional treatment. However, the esophageal anatomy presents distinct challenges to surgical resection of the diverticulum, particularly when it is located closer to the oral orifice. Since the condition itself is not malignant,minimally invasive endoscopic approaches have been developed with a focus on alleviation of symptoms. Several types of endoscopic devices and techniques are currently employed, including peroral endoscopic myotomy(POEM). However,the use of minimally invasive endoscopic approaches, like POEM, has allowed the development of new disorder called iatrogenic esophageal diverticula. In this paper, we review the pathophysiology of each type of diverticulum and the current state-of-the-art treatment based on our experience.展开更多
Distal esophageal spasm(DES)is a rare major motility disorder in the Chicago classification of esophageal motility disorders(CC).DES is diagnosed by finding of≥20%premature contractions,with normal lower esophageal s...Distal esophageal spasm(DES)is a rare major motility disorder in the Chicago classification of esophageal motility disorders(CC).DES is diagnosed by finding of≥20%premature contractions,with normal lower esophageal sphincter(LES)relaxation on high-resolution manometry(HRM)in the latest version of CCv3.0.This feature differentiates it from achalasia type 3,which has an elevated LES relaxation pressure.Like other spastic esophageal disorders,DES has been linked to conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease,psychiatric conditions,and narcotic use.In addition to HRM,ancillary tests such as endoscopy and barium esophagram can provide supplemental information to differentiate DES from other conditions.Functional lumen imaging probe(FLIP),a new cutting-edge diagnostic tool,is able to recognize abnormal LES dysfunction that can be missed by HRM and can further guide LES targeted treatment when esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction is diagnosed on FLIP.Medical treatment in DES mostly targets symptomatic relief and often fails.Botulinum toxin injection during endoscopy may provide a temporary therapy that wears off over time.Myotomy through peroral endoscopic myotomy or via surgical Heller myotomy can provide long term relief in cases with persistent symptoms.展开更多
文摘BACKGROUND Achalasia is associated with high risk of esophageal carcinoma.However,the optimal endoscopic surgery for patients with early esophageal carcinoma concomitant with achalasia remains unclear.CASE SUMMARY A combination of concurrent endoscopic submucosal dissection(ESD)and modified peroral endoscopic myotomy(POEM)was performed on a 62-year-old male,who presented with multiple early esophageal carcinomas concomitant with achalasia.The patient exhibited an improvement in feeding obstruction,and presented no evidence of disease during the 3-year follow-up.CONCLUSION The combination of ESD and POEM is a feasible treatment modality for patients with early esophageal carcinoma concomitant with achalasia.
文摘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.
文摘In general,the treatment methods for esophageal achalasia are largely classified into four groups,including drug therapy using nitrite or a calcium channel blocker,botulinum toxin injection,endoscopic therapy such as endoscopic balloon dilation,and surgery. Various studies have suggested that the most effective treatment of esophageal achalasia is surgical therapy. The basic concept of this surgical therapy has not changed since Heller proposed esophageal myotomy for the purpose of resolution of lower esophageal obstruction for the first time in 1913,but the most common approach has changed from openchest surgery to laparoscopic surgery. Currently,the laparoscopic surgery has been the procedure of choice for the treatment of esophageal achalasia. During the process of the transition from open-chest surgery to laparotomy,to thoracoscopic surgery,and to laparoscopic surgery,the necessity of combining antireflux surgery has been recognized. There is some debate as to which type of antireflux surgery should be selected. The Toupet fundoplication may be the most effective in prevention of postoperative antireflux,but many medical institutions have selected the Dor fundoplication which covers the mucosal surface exposed by myotomy. Recently,a new endoscopic approach,peroral endoscopic myotomy(POEM),has received attention. Future studies should examine the long-term outcomes and whether POEM becomes the gold standard for the treatment of esophageal achalasia.
文摘AIM: Achalasia is the best known primary motor disorder of the esophagus in which the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) has abnormally high resting pressure and incomplete relaxation with swallowing. Pneumatic dilatation remains the first choice of treatment. The aims of this study were to determine the long term clinical outcome of treating achalasia initially with pneumatic dilatation and usefulness of pneumatic dilatation technique under endoscopic observation without fluoroscopy. METHODS: A total of 65 dilatations were performed in 43 patients with achalasia [23 males and 20 females, the mean age was 43 years (range, 19-73)]. All patients underwent an initial dilatation by inflating a 30mm balloon to 15 psi under endoscopic control. The need for subsequent dilatation was based on symptom assessment. A 3.5cm balloon was used for repeat procedures. RESULTS: The 30mm balloon achieved a satisfactory result in 24 patients (54%) and the 35mm ballon in 78% of the remainder (14/18). Esophageal perforation as a short-term complication was observed in one patient (2.3%). The only late complication encountered was gastroesophageal reflux in 2(4%) patients with a good response to dilatation. The mean follow-up period was 2.4 years (6mo-5years). Of the patients studied, 38(88%) were relieved of their symptoms after only one or two sessions. Five patients were referred for surgery (one for esophageal perforation and four for persistent or recurrent symptoms). Among the patients whose follow up information was available, the percentage of patients in remission was 79% (19/24) at 1year and 54% (7/13) at 5 years. CONCLUSION: Performing balloon dilatation under endoscopic observation as an outpatient procedure is simple, safe and efficacious for treating patients with achalasia and referral of surgical myotomy should be considered for patients who do not respond to medical therapy or individuals that donot desire pneumatic dilatations.
文摘Achalasia is generally accepted as a condition associated with an increased risk for developing esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. In our paper, we introduced an achalasia patient combined with synchronous early esophageal neoplasms. We performed a combination of concurrent endoscopic submucosal dissection(ESD) and peroral endoscopic myotomy(POEM). No complications other than postoperative pain that needed morphine treatment for two days had occurred. Dysphagia was significantly improved. Neither reflux nor cough occurred. The short-term efficacy and safety of our case is favorable and suggests that concurrent ESD and POEM could be a treatment option to such patients.
文摘A 54-year-old man was referred for ablation of symptomatic drug-refractory long-lasting persistent atrial fibrillation. His past medical history was negative for cardiac disease but included a diagnosis of esophageal achalasia. The patient underwent an ablation procedure, guided by barium esophagram, including isolation of the pulmonary veins, ablation of complex fractionated left atrial electrograms recorded on the sep-tal wall and, finally, linear ablation of the cavo-tricuspid isthmus. The ablation procedure was performed with multielectrode ablation catheters using duty-cycled bipolar/unipolar radiofrequency energy. During 6 months of follow-up no recurrences of atrial fibrillation were documented. The reported case demonstrates how an ablation procedure for long-standing persistent AF may be safely performed even in a patient presenting with a achalasia, outlining the mega-esophagus position with a simple barium paste.
文摘Recent advances in the treatment of achalasia include the use of high-resolution manometry to predict the outcome of patients and the introduction of peroral endoscopic myotomy(POEM).The first multicenter randomized,controlled,2-year follow-up study conducted by the European Achalasia Trial group indicated that laparoscopic Heller myotomy(LHM)was not superior to pneumatic dilations(PD).Publications on the long-term success of laparoscopic surgery continue to emerge.In addition,laparoscopic single-site surgery is applicable to advanced laparoscopic operations such as LHM and anterior fundoplication.The optimal treatment option is an ongoing matter of debate.In this review,we provide an update of the current progress in the treatment of esophageal achalasia.Unless new conclusive data prove otherwise,LHM is considered the most durable treatment for achalasia at the expense of increased reflux-associated complications.However,PD is the first choice for non-surgical treatment and is more costeffective.Repeated PD according to an"on-demand"strategy based on symptom recurrence can achieve long-term remission.Decision making should be based on clinical evidence that identifies a subcategory of patients who would benefit from specific treatment options.POEM has shown promise but its long-term efficacy and safety need to be assessed further.
文摘Pneumatic dilation(PD) is considered to be the first line nonsurgical therapy for achalasia.The principle of the procedure is to weaken the lower esophageal sphincter by tearing its muscle fibers by generating radial force.The endoscope-guided procedure is done without fluoroscopic control.Clinicians usually use a lowcompliance balloon such as Rigiflex dilator to perform endoscope-guided PD for the treatment of esophageal achalasia.It has the advantage of determining mucosal injury during the dilation process,so that a repeat endoscopy is not needed to assess the mucosal tearing.Previous studies have shown that endoscope-guided PD is an efficient and safe nonsurgical therapy with results that compare well with other treatment modalities.Although the results may be promising,long-term follow-up is required in the near future.
文摘AIM: To investigate the relationship between upper esophageal sphincter abnormalities achalasia treatment METHODS: We performed a retrospective study of 41 consecutive patients referred for high resolution esophageal manometry with a final manometric diagnosis of achalasia. Patients were sub-divided by presence or absence of Upper esophageal sphincter(UES) abnormality, and clinical and manometric profiles were compared.Correlation between UES abnormality and sub-type(i.e.,hypertensive, hypotensive or impaired relaxation) and a number of variables, including qualitative treatment response, achalasia sub-type, co-morbid medical illness,psychiatric illness, surgical history, dominant presentingsymptom, treatment type, age and gender were also evaluated.RESULTS: Among all 41 patients, 24(58.54%) had a UES abnormality present. There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of age, gender or any other clinical or demographic profiles. Among those with UES abnormalities, the majority were either hypertensive(41.67%) or had impaired relaxation(37.5%) as compared to hypotensive(20.83%), although this did not reach statistical significance(P = 0.42). There was no specific association between treatment response and treatment type received; however, there was a significant association between UES abnormalities and treatment response. In patients with achalasia and concomitant UES abnormalities, 87.5% had poor treatment response, while only 12.5% had favorable response. In contrast, in patients with achalasia and no UES abnormalities, the majority(78.57%) had good treatment response, as compared to 21.43% with poor treatment response(P = 0.0001). After controlling for achalasia sub-type, those with UES abnormality had 26 times greater odds of poor treatment response than those with no UES abnormality(P = 0.009). Similarly, after controlling for treatment type, those with UES abnormality had 13.9 times greater odds of poor treatment response compared to those with no UES abnormality(P = 0.017).CONCLUSION: The presence of UES abnormalities in patients with achalasia significantly predicted poorer treatment response as compared to those with normal UES function.
文摘A 62-year-old male patient was admitted to our hospital due to severe chest pain,odynophagia,and hematemesis.Chest computed tomography showed an esophageal submucosal tumor.Esophagogastroduodenoscopy(EGD) revealed a longitudinal purplish bulging tumor of the esophagus.Endoscopic ultrasound(EUS) showed a mixed echoic tumor with partial liquefaction from the submucosal layer.The patient was diagnosed with esophageal intramural hematoma as well as achalasia by upper gastrointestinal endoscopy,esophagography and esophageal manometry.The patient was managed conservatively with intravenous nutrition,and oral feeding was discontinued.Follow-up EGD and EUS showed complete recovery of the esophageal wall,and finally,the patient underwent endoscopic dilatation for achalasia.The patient was symptom free at the time when we wrote this manuscript.
文摘INTRODUCTIONThe origins of oesophageal surgery ,like most surgical treatments ,are based in the treatment of traumatic injury .The Smith Surgical Papyrus describes the examination, diagnosis and treatment of 'a gaping wound of throat, penetrating the gullet' [1].
文摘BACKGROUND For recurrent achalasia after initial peroral endoscopic myotomy(POEM)failure,repeat POEM(Re-POEM)has been reported as a treatment option.However,severe esophageal interlayer adhesions caused by previous procedures impede the successful establishment of a submucosal tunnel and lead to aborted Re-POEM procedures.Our team previously described POEM with simultaneous submucosal and muscle dissection(POEM-SSMD)as a feasible solution for achalasia with severe interlayer adhesions.AIM To investigate the effectiveness and safety of Re-POEM with simultaneous submucosal and muscle dissection(Re-POEM-SSMD).METHODS A total of 1049 patients with achalasia who underwent successful endoscopic myotomy at the Digestive Endoscopic Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital from December 2014 to May 2022 were reviewed.Patients with recurrent achalasia who experienced initial POEM clinical failure were retrospectively included in this study.The primary endpoint was retreatment clinical success,defined as an Eckardt score≤3 during the postretreatment follow-up and no need for additional treatment.Procedure-related adverse events,changes in manometric lower esophageal sphincter(LES)pressure and reflux complications,as well as procedure-related parameters,were recorded.RESULTS Sixteen patients underwent Re-POEM(9 patients)or Re-POEM-SSMD(7 patients)successfully at a median of 45.5 mo(range,4-95 mo)after initial POEM.During a median followup period of 31 mo(range,7-96 mo),clinical success(Eckardt score≤3)was achieved in 8(88.9%)and 6(85.7%)patients after Re-POEM and Re-POEM-SSMD,respectively(P=0.849).The median Eckardt score dropped from 4(range,3-8)at preretreatment to 1(range,0-5)at postretreatment in the Re-POEM group(P=0.025)and from 5(range,2-8)to 2(range,0-4)in the Re-POEM-SSMD group(P<0.001).The mean manometric LES pressure decreased from 23.78±9.04 mmHg to 11.45±5.37 mmHg after Re-POEM(P<0.001)and from 26.80±7.48 mmHg to 11.05±4.38 mmHg after Re-POEM-SSMD(P<0.001).No serious adverse events were recorded in both groups.CONCLUSION In conclusion,Re-POEM-SSMD appears to be a safe and effective salvage therapy for recurrent achalasia with severe interlayer adhesions.
文摘There have been some breakthroughs in the diagnosis and treatment of esophageal achalasia in the past few years.First,the introduction of high-resolution manometry with pressure topography plotting as a new diagnostic tool has made it possible to classify achalasia into three subtypes.The most favorable outcome is predicted for patients receiving treatment for type Ⅱ achalasia (achalasia with compression).Patients with typeⅠ(classic achalasia) and type Ⅲ achalasia (spastic achalasia) experience a less favorable outcome.Second,the first multicenter randomized controlled trial published by the European Achalasia Trial group reported 2-year follow-up results indicating that laparoscopic Heller myotomy was not superior to endoscopic pneumatic dilation (PD).Although the follow-up period was not long enough to reach a convincing conclusion,it merits the continued use of PD as a generally available technique in gastroenterology.Third,the novelendoscopic technique peroral endoscopic myotomy is a promising option for treating achalasia,but it requires increased experience and cautious evaluation.Despite all this good news,the bottom line is a real break-through from the basic studies to identify the actual cause of achalasia that may impede treatment success is still anticipated.
文摘Thanks to the development of minimally invasive surgery, the last 20 years have witnessed a change in the treatment algorithm of benign esophageal disorders. Today a laparoscopic operation is the treatment of choice for esophageal achalasia and for most patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease. Because the pathogenesis of achalasia is unknown, treatment is palliative and aims to improve esophageal emptying by decreasing the functional obstruction at the level of the gastro-esophageal junction. The refinement of minimally invasive techniques accompanied by large, multiple randomized control trials with long-term outcome has allowed the laparoscopic Heller myotomy and partial fundoplication to become the treatment of choice for achalasia compared to endoscopic procedures, including endoscopic botulinum toxin injection and pneumatic dilatation. Patients with suspected gastroesophageal reflux need to undergo a thorough preoperative workup. After establishing diagnosis, treatment for gastroesophageal reflux should be individualized to patient characteristics and a decision about an operation made jointly between surgeon and patient. The indications for surgery have changed in the last twenty years. In the past, surgery was often considered for patients who did not respond well to acid reducing medications. Today, the best candidate for surgery is the patient who has excellent control of symptoms with proton pump inhibitors. The minimally invasive approach to antireflux surgery has allowed surgeons to control reflux in a safe manner, with excellent long term outcomes. Like achalasia and gastroesophageal reflux, the treatment of patients with paraesophageal hernias has also seen a major evolution. The laparoscopic approach has been shown to be safe, and durable, with good relief of symptoms over the long-term. The most significant controversy with laparoscopic paraesophageal hernia repair is the optimal crural repair. This manuscript reviews the evolution of these techniques.
文摘AIM: To assess the outcome of different treatments in patients admitted for esophageal achalasia in the United States.METHODS: This is a retrospective analysis using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample over an 8-year period(2003-2010). Patients admitted with a primary diagnosis of achalasia were divided into 3 groups based on their treatment:(1) Group 1: patients who underwent Heller myotomy during their hospital stay;(2) Group 2: patients who underwent esophagectomy; and(3) Group 3: patients not undergoing surgical treatment. Primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes included length of stay(LOS), discharge destination and total hospital charges.RESULTS: Among 27141 patients admitted with achalasia, nearly half(48.5%) underwent Heller myotomy, 2.5% underwent esophagectomy and 49.0% had endoscopic or other treatment. Patients in group 1 were younger, healthier, and had the lowest mortality when compared with the other two groups. Group 2 had the highest LOS and hospital charges among all groups. Group 3 had the highest mortality(1.2%, P < 0.001) and the lowest home discharge rate(78.8%) when compared to the other groups. The most frequently performed procedures among group 3 were esophageal dilatation(25.9%) and injection(13.3%). Among patients who died in this group the most common associated morbidities included acute respiratory failure, sepsis and aspiration pneumonia. CONCLUSION: Surgery for achalasia carries exceedingly low mortality in the modern era; however, in complicated patients, even less invasive treatments are burdened bysignificant mortality and morbidity.
文摘Intramural hematoma of the esophagus is a rare but well described type of acute injury of the esophageal wall and it is more frequently being recognized throughout the world. Patients usually present with acute retrosternal or epigastric pain, minor hematemesis and dysphagia. The condition is mostly seen in women with abnormal coagulation and it can either occur spontaneous or induced by trauma or transesopha-geal procedures. It is associated with food impaction and vomiting. Esophageal intramural hematoma has also been reported in young and healthy patients. Case reports with coexisting achalasia are limited. Management is conservative and its course is benign.
文摘BACKGROUND Achalasia is a rare benign esophageal motor disorder characterized by incomplete relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter(LES). The treatment of achalasia is not curative, but rather is aimed at reducing LES pressure. In patients who have failed noninvasive therapy, surgery should be considered. Myotomy with partial fundoplication has been considered the first-line treatment for non-advanced achalasia. Recently, peroral endoscopic myotomy(POEM), a technique that employs the principles of submucosal endoscopy to perform the equivalent of a surgical myotomy,has emerged as a promising minimally invasive technique for the management of this condition.AIM To compare POEM and laparoscopic myotomy and partial fundoplication(LM-PF) regarding their efficacy and outcomes for the treatment of achalasia.METHODS Forty treatment-naive adult patients who had been diagnosed with achalasia based on clinical and manometric criteria(dysphagia score ≥ II and Eckardt score > 3) were randomized to undergo either LM-PF or POEM. The outcome measures were anesthesia time, procedure time, symptom improvement, reflux esophagitis(as determined with the Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Questionnaire), barium column height at 1 and 5 min(on a barium esophagogram), pressure at the LES, the occurrence of adverse events(AEs), length of stay(LOS), and quality of life(QoL).RESULTS There were no statistically significant differences between the LM-PF and POEM groups regarding symptom improvement at 1, 6, and 12 mo of follow-up(P = 0.192, P = 0.242, and P = 0.242, respectively). However, the rates of reflux esophagitis at 1, 6, and 12 mo of follow-up were significantly higher in the POEM group(P = 0.014, P < 0.001, and P = 0.002, respectively). There were also no statistical differences regarding the manometry values, the occurrence of AEs, or LOS. Anesthesia time and procedure time were significantly shorter in the POEM group than in the LM-PF group(185.00 ± 56.89 and 95.70 ± 30.47 min vs 296.75 ± 56.13 and 218.75 ± 50.88 min,respectively;P = 0.001 for both). In the POEM group, there were improvements in all domains of the QoL questionnaire, whereas there were improvements in only three domains in the LM-PF group.CONCLUSION POEM and LM-PF appear to be equally effective in controlling the symptoms of achalasia,shortening LOS, and minimizing AEs. Nevertheless, POEM has the advantage of improving all domains of QoL, and shortening anesthesia and procedure times but with a significantly higher rate of gastroesophageal reflux.
文摘BACKGROUND Little is known about the clinical significance of upper esophageal sphincter(UES)motility disorders and their association with the treatment response of typeⅡachalasia.None of the three versions of the Chicago Classification of Esophageal Motility Disorders has defined UES abnormality metrics or their function.UES abnormalities exist in some patients and indicate a clinically significant problem in patients with achalasia.AIM To demonstrate the manometric differentiation on high-resolution esophageal manometry between subjects with abnormal UES and normal UES,and the association between UES type and the treatment response of typeⅡachalasia.METHODS In total,498 consecutive patients referred for high-resolution esophageal manometry were analyzed retrospectively.The patients were divided into two groups,those with normal and abnormal UES function.UES parameters were analyzed after determining lower esophageal sphincter(LES)function.Patients with typeⅡachalasia underwent pneumatic dilation for treatment.Using mixed model analyses,correlations between abnormal UES and treatment response were calculated among subjects with typeⅡachalasia.RESULTS Of the 498 consecutive patients,246(49.40%)were found to have UES abnormalities.Impaired relaxation alone was the most common UES abnormality(52.85%,n=130).The incidence rate of typeⅡachalasia was significantly higher in subjects with abnormal UES than those with normal UES(9.77%vs 2.58%,P=0.01).After pneumatic dilation,LES resting pressure,LES integrated relaxation pressure,and UES residual pressure were significantly decreased(41.91±9.20 vs 26.18±13.08,38.94±10.28 vs 16.71±5.65,and 11.18±7.93 vs 5.35±4.77,respectively,P<0.05).According to the Eckardt score,subjects with typeⅡachalasia and abnormal UES presented a significantly poorer treatment response than those with normal UES(83.33%vs 0.00%,P<0.05).CONCLUSION Impaired relaxation alone is the most common UES abnormality.The incidence of typeⅡachalasia is associated with abnormal UES.TypeⅡachalasia with abnormal UES has a poorer treatment response,which is a potentially prognostic indicator of treatment for this disease.
文摘Esophageal diverticula are rare conditions that cause esophageal symptoms, such as dysphagia, regurgitation, and chest pain. They are classified according to their location and characteristic pathophysiology into three types: epiphrenic diverticulum, Zenker's diverticulum, and Rokitansky diverticulum. The former two disorders take the form of protrusions, and symptomatic cases require interventional treatment. However, the esophageal anatomy presents distinct challenges to surgical resection of the diverticulum, particularly when it is located closer to the oral orifice. Since the condition itself is not malignant,minimally invasive endoscopic approaches have been developed with a focus on alleviation of symptoms. Several types of endoscopic devices and techniques are currently employed, including peroral endoscopic myotomy(POEM). However,the use of minimally invasive endoscopic approaches, like POEM, has allowed the development of new disorder called iatrogenic esophageal diverticula. In this paper, we review the pathophysiology of each type of diverticulum and the current state-of-the-art treatment based on our experience.
文摘Distal esophageal spasm(DES)is a rare major motility disorder in the Chicago classification of esophageal motility disorders(CC).DES is diagnosed by finding of≥20%premature contractions,with normal lower esophageal sphincter(LES)relaxation on high-resolution manometry(HRM)in the latest version of CCv3.0.This feature differentiates it from achalasia type 3,which has an elevated LES relaxation pressure.Like other spastic esophageal disorders,DES has been linked to conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease,psychiatric conditions,and narcotic use.In addition to HRM,ancillary tests such as endoscopy and barium esophagram can provide supplemental information to differentiate DES from other conditions.Functional lumen imaging probe(FLIP),a new cutting-edge diagnostic tool,is able to recognize abnormal LES dysfunction that can be missed by HRM and can further guide LES targeted treatment when esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction is diagnosed on FLIP.Medical treatment in DES mostly targets symptomatic relief and often fails.Botulinum toxin injection during endoscopy may provide a temporary therapy that wears off over time.Myotomy through peroral endoscopic myotomy or via surgical Heller myotomy can provide long term relief in cases with persistent symptoms.