Barium Column Research Articles

Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy: Short Versus Long Esophageal Myotomy for Achalasia Cardia: A Randomized Controlled Noninferiority Trial.

The appropriate length of esophageal myotomy in peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) for achalasia cardia remains unclear. This study aimed to compare the outcome of short (≤3cm) and long (≥6cm) esophageal myotomy in patients with type I and II achalasia cardia. This single-blinded, randomized controlled noninferiority trial was conducted at a tertiary center between July 2021 and December 2021. Patients with achalasia types I and II were randomized into short (≤3cm) and long (≥6cm) esophageal myotomy groups. The primary outcome of the study was clinical success (Eckardt score ≤3) 1 year after the procedure. The secondary outcomes included a comparison of technical success, operating duration, occurrence of intraoperative adverse events, alterations in integrated relaxation pressure (IRP), change in barium column height after 5 minutes (1mo), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (3mo) between the groups. Fifty-four patients were randomized into the short (n=27) or long (n=27) esophageal myotomy groups. Technical success rates were 100% (27/27) and 96.3% (26/27) in short myotomy (SM) and long myotomy (LM) groups, respectively. The clinical success rates were 96.3% (26/27) and 96.2% (25/26) in the SM and LM groups, respectively ( P =0.998). The mean (±SD) length of the esophageal myotomy was 2.75±0.36cm in the SM and 6.69±1.35cm in the LM groups ( P <0.001). The mean (±SD) procedure time for the SM and LM groups was 61.22±8.44 and 82.42±14.70 minutes ( P <0.001), respectively. The mean integrated relaxation pressure (IRP), Eckardt score, adverse events, reflux esophagitis, symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux disease, and esophageal acid exposure (>6%) did not differ significantly between the 2 groups following POEM treatment. Short myotomy is noninferior to long myotomy in terms of clinical success, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and intraoperative adverse events at the short-term follow-up ( P >0.05). Short myotomy resulted in a reduced operative time ( P <0.05).

Effect of esophageal body recoil on clinical outcomes in non-spastic achalasia.

Despite the established efficacy of achalasia treatments on symptomatic outcomes, there are limited data evaluating the treatment effect on esophageal dilatation. This study aimed to assess the effect achalasia treatment on esophageal dilatation and the effect of esophageal width reduction ("recoil") on clinical outcomes. Patients with type I or type II achalasia that completed high-resolution manometry (HRM), functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP), and timed barium esophagram (TBE) pre and post treatment were included. Esophageal width was measured using TBE. Focused subgroup analysis was performed on patients with normal posttreatment EGJ opening on FLIP. Good clinical outcomes were defined as barium column height of <5 cm at 5 min and Eckardt Score ≤3. Sixty-nine patients (41% type I and 59% type II) were included. Esophageal width decreased from pre to post treatment mean (SD) 4.2 (1.3) cm-2.8 (1.2) cm; p < 0.01. In the normal post treatment EGJ opening subgroup, esophageal width was less in patients with good TBE outcome compared to poor outcome mean (SD) 2.2 (0.7) cm versus 3.2 (1.4) cm (p < 0.01), but did not differ in good versus poor symptomatic outcome groups. Esophageal width recoil >25% posttreatment was associated with a greater rate of good TBE outcome (71% vs. 50%, p = 0.04) and good symptomatic outcome (88% vs. 50%; p = 0.04). Esophageal recoil was associated with good achalasia treatment outcome in patients without posttreatment EGJ obstruction. This suggests that mechanical properties of the esophageal wall, likely associated with tissue remodeling, play a role in clinical outcomes following achalasia treatment.

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

ObjectiveAs 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...

The Efficacy of Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy vs Pneumatic Dilation as Treatment for Patients With Achalasia Suffering From Persistent or Recurrent Symptoms After Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy: A Randomized Clinical Trial

For patients with achalasia experiencing persistent or recurrent symptoms after laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM), pneumatic dilation (PD) is the most frequently used treatment. Per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is increasingly being investigated as rescue therapy. This study aimed to determine the efficacy of POEM vs PD for patients with persistent or recurrent symptoms after LHM. This randomized multicenter controlled trial included patients after LHM with an Eckardt score >3 and substantial stasis (≥2 cm) on timed barium esophagogram and randomized to POEM or PD. The primary outcome was treatment success, defined as an Eckardt score of ≤3 and without unscheduled re-treatment. Secondary outcomes included the presence of reflux esophagitis, high-resolution manometry, and timed barium esophagogram findings. Follow-up duration was 1 year after initial treatment. Ninety patients were included. POEM had a higher success rate (28 of 45 patients [62.2%]) than PD (12 of 45 patients [26.7%]; absolute difference, 35.6%; 95% CI, 16.4%-54.7%; P= .001; odds ratio, 0.22; 95% CI, 0.09-0.54; relative risk for success, 2.33; 95% CI, 1.37-3.99). Reflux esophagitis was not significantly different between POEM (12 of 35 [34.3%]) and PD (6 of 40 [15%]). Basal lower esophageal sphincter pressure and integrated relaxation pressure (IRP-4) were significantly lower in the POEM group (P= .034; P= .002). Barium column height after 2 and 5 minutes was significantly less in patients treated with POEM (P= .005; P= .015). Among patients with achalasia experiencing persistent or recurrent symptoms after LHM, POEM resulted in a significantly higher success rate than PD, with a numerically higher incidence of grade A-B reflux esophagitis. NL4361 (NTR4501), https://trialsearch.who.int/Trial2.aspx?TrialID= NTR4501.

Efficacy of Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy for Achalasia: Evaluation of Treatment Effect using Timed Barium Esophagography

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is one of the standard treatment modality for achalasia. This study was to evaluate the usefulness of timed barium esophagography (TBE) in the evaluation of treatment effect of POEM for achalasia. A total of 36 patients (M:F=22:14) underwent pre- and post-POEM TBE (3 groups according to lower esophageal sphincter (LES) caliber, A: &lt; 5 mm, B: 5~8 mm, C: &gt; 8 mm). On pre and post-POEM TBE, the rate of area changes of barium column and the changes of LES caliber were investigated. All data were statistically analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test or Mann-Whitney U test. The mean rate of area change of the barium column at 5 minutes between pre- and post-POEM TBE were -51.7%, -28.8% and -11.6% in group A (n=10), B (n=18), and C (n=8), respectively, statistically significant (p &lt; 0.001). The rate difference of the barium column area changes between group A and group B only showed the statistical significance (p &lt; 0.001). The mean increased caliber of LES after POEM was 5.5 mm, 2.9 mm, and 3.3 mm in group A, B, and C, respectively. Group A and bird’s beak type showed a statistically significant treatment effect (p &lt; 0.001). In conclusion, TBE was useful in the evaluation of the treatment effect of POEM for achalasia and the narrowest LES group and bird’s beak esophageal type on TBE showed statistically significant treatment effects.

OUTCOME OF PER ORAL ENDOSCOPIC MYOTOMY (POEM) IN SIGMOID ACHALASIA AT A MEDIAN FOLLOW UP OF 17 MONTHS.

Advanced achalasia cardia (AC) represents the end stage in the natural history of AC. Role of per oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) in this technically difficult subset is emerging. Retrospective review of the patients who had undergone POEM for advanced AC with sigmoid esophagus. We assessed the technical success, clinical success and adverse event rate. Pre and post POEM Eckardt score (ES), integrated relaxation pressure-4sec (IRP-4), lower oesophageal sphincter pressure (LESP) and height and width of barium column at 5 minutes were noted. Of the 85 patients who underwent POEM for AC, 10 patients had advanced AC with sigmoid esophagus of which eight were sigmoid and two were advanced sigmoid. The clinical and technical success was 100% with significant reduction of ES, IRP-4, LESP and height and width of barium column at 5 minutes. One patient had a minor adverse event in the form of mucosal injury that was closed with hemoclips. At a median follow up of 17 months there was no recurrence. Our study demonstrates POEM to be a safe and effective modality of treatment in this technically difficult subset of AC with sigmoid morphology.

582. REPORT ON A 42 YEAR EXPERIENCE WITH THE LAPAROTOMIC/LAPAROSCOPIC HELLER-DOR OPERATION PERFORMED WITH INTRAOPERATIVE MANOMETRY FOR ESOPHAGEAL ACHALASIA

Abstract In 1979 our surgical group proposed the Heller-Dor operation (HD) to accomplish new concepts of surgical pathophysiology: to abolish the lower esophageal sphincter with the division of the U-and sling fibers of the lesser gastric curvature, to prevent GER with an effective but not too effective partial fundoplication which protects the myotomy surface. Aim is to report very long-term results of the treatment of esophageal achalasia with the Heller-Dor operation performed with intra operative manometry. In the period 1979-2021 HD was in first instance adopted in 202 patients (97 men; median age 45 years; IQR 31–59) in laparotomy (L-HD) and in 162 (79 men; age 48 years; IQR 35–63) in laparoscopy (V-HD). At intraoperative manometry, the complete abolition of the high-pressure zone was always obtained and the Dor length and pressure were trimmed according to reference values. Follow-up consisted of interview, endoscopy and barium swallow performed every 3 years. The overall outcome was graded from excellent to poor according to the severity of symptoms and esophagitis. Median follow-up was 14.8 years in HD, 7.5 years in V-HD (p&amp;lt;0.001). Esophageal diameter and residual barium column decreased substantially during the first 3 years after the operation, but not successively. In the L-HD group poor results were 22 (10.9%): due to esophagitis in 17 (8.4%) and to recurrent dysphagia in 5 (2.5%). In V-HD, 4 (2.5%) had esophagitis and 2 (1.2%) severe dysphagia. Outcome was satisfactory in 89% of L-HD and in 96% of V-HD (p&amp;lt;0.001). Postoperatively, according to the Kaplan Mayer curve, dysphagia, reflux symptoms and esophagitis occurred within 60-65 months after surgery. Timing of dysphagia relapse and post-myotomy reflux occurrence indicate that after five years, surgical results can be considered definitive. The 96% of satisfactory results we achieved with VL-HD, at a median follow-up time of 8 years, shows the potentiality of this surgical technique. In our experience, the learning process, not the follow-up length or the laparotomy/laparoscopy method is the cause of improved results of the laparoscopy HD.

579. LONG TERM RESULTS OF THE PULL-DOWN HELLER-DOR TECHNIQUE FOR ACHALASIA PATIENTS WITH SIGMOID ESOPHAGUS

Abstract The outcome of achalasia treatment in patients with sigmoid esophagus is worse than that achieved for fusiform achalasia. We compared two groups of sigmoid achalasia patients, in which we performed the standard Heller-Dor procedure (HD) and the Heller-Dor plus a technique aimed to restore the vertical axis of the intraabdominal portion of the esophagus pull-down Heller-Dor (PD-HD). Long-term results were evaluated. We considered 48 patients affected by primitive esophageal sigmoid achalasia operated upon consecutively (1979-2021) in first instance. After 1987, we routinely isolated 360° of the gastro-esophageal junction and the lower esophagus and applied U stitches at the right side of the lower esophagus to pull down and rotate the gastro-esophageal junction toward the right. Twenty-five patients underwent the standard HD and 23 patients underwent the PD-HD technique. Postoperative follow-up included barium swallow, clinical interview investigating dysphagia and reflux symptoms and endoscopy. The overall outcome was graded from excellent to poor according to the severity of symptoms and esophagitis. The median follow-up period was 11 years (IQR 6-22) for HD group and 9 (IQR 6-14) for PD-HD (p=0.22). At postoperative barium swallow, patients in the PD-DH group had smaller esophageal diameter [4 cm (IQR 4-4.7) vs 4.7 cm (IQR 4-5), p=0.04] and lower residual barium column [10 cm (IQR 6-13) vs 6 cm (IQR 0-8), p=0.001] than those in the HD group. Postoperative moderate-severe (D2-D3) dysphagia rates were 40% for HD and 13% for PD-HD group (p=0.003). The outcome of treatment revealed satisfactory (excellent, good, fair) results in 68% and 91.4% of HD and PD-HD group patients, respectively. The Heller-Dor operation is effective in the presence of sigmoid achalasia. The clinical and instrumental evaluations showed better results with the PD-HD technique. This technique may be the first choice for end-stage achalasia with null or low risk for cancer.

573. DOES CHEST PAIN AFFECT THE LONG TERM OTCOME OF SURGERY FOR ESOPHAGEAL ACHALASIA?

Abstract Literature supporting the adoption of POEM in place of the standard Heller myotomy in the presence of significant chest pain associated with typical symptoms like in case of Achalasia Type III according to the Chicago classification, generally reports on outcome data collected after short follow up periods. We aimed to assess behaviors of chest pain in the long term in a case series of patients submitted to the Heller-Dor operation. Between 1978 and 2021,394 achalasia patients underwent the Heller-Dor operation. Chest pain was evaluated according to its frequency (0: absent; 1: occasional; 2: weekly; 3: daily): 81 preoperatively complained of chest pain (score 2-3) (CP group), 313 did not (score 0-1) (NCP group). Patients were followed up according to a timed protocol based on clinical assessment of dysphagia (D0 absent – D3 each meal), GERD symptoms (RS0 absent-RS3 each meal). Barium swallow and endoscopy (E0: normal, E1: mild esophagitis, E2-3: erosive/ulcerative esophagitis) were performed at each planned control. CP and NCP were compared. CP group had shorter duration of dysphagia (p=0.03), smaller esophageal diameter and lower barium column (p&amp;lt;0.05). At a median follow-up of 10 years for CP and 11 years for NCP (p=0.166), the frequency of dysphagia (p=0.05), GERD symptoms (p=0.3) and esophagitis (p=0.27) was similar in the two groups. Chest pain progressively attenuated in intensity and frequency.; median chest pain score preoperatively was 3, at follow-up it was 0 (p&amp;lt;0.01). Clinical results obtained in CP patients (satisfactory D0–2, RS0–2, and E1 in 95%) were not inferior to those obtained in NCP patients (satisfactory in 93%) (p=0.05). According to our single center case series, in the long term chest pain does not influence negatively HD outcome which is absolutely competitive with that generally reported for POEM and pneumatic dilation. Results presented in this study must be verified: as new randomized prospective studies would require a too long lag time, valid retrospective multi center studies should be performed.

84: DOES CHEST PAIN INFLUENCE NEGATIVELY LONG TERM CLINICALRESULTS OF THE SURGICAL TREATMENT FOR ESOPHAGEAL ACHALASIA?

Abstract Background and aim Recently it has been recommended not to perform the Heller myotomy in Achalasia type III (Chicago classification) because of the persistence of chest pain after surgery; alternatively, POEM was proposed. This position is based on short term follow up studies. In the last 40 years our group performed the Heller-Dor operation (HD) in achalasia diagnosed according to Vantrappen and Castell PMDE classification also in the presence of chest pain (vigorous achalasia included, diffuse spasm and nutcracker esophagus excluded). In cases operated upon of HD, we investigated in the long term chest pain, inside the global surgery evaluation. Methods Between 1978 and 2020, 390 achalasia patients underwent the Heller-Dor operation. Among them, 79 preoperatively complained of chest pain (group A), 311 did not (group B). Patients were preoperatively classified and postoperatively followed up according to a timed protocol based on clinical assessment of intensity and frequency of dysphagia (D0 absent—D3 daily), GERD symptoms (RS0 absent-RS3 daily); chest pain was quantified according to the Eckardt’s scale (0 none—3 each meal). Barium swallow and endoscopy (E0: normal, E1: mild esophagitis, E2–3: erosive/ulcerative esophagitis) were performed at each planned control. A and B groups were compared. Results Groups were homogeneous according to sex (P = 0.42) and age (P = 0.51). After HD median follow-up was 10 years (IQR 4.7–12.6 years) for A, 14 years (IQR 5.6–20 years) for B (P = 0.166); at barium swallow the percentage of decrease in esophageal diameter and barium column was similar (P = 0.59 and P = 0.85, respectively) as well as the frequency of GERD symptoms and esophagitis (P = 0.27). Chest pain progressively attenuated; median Eckard score preoperatively was 3, at follow-up it was 1 (P &amp;lt; 0.001). The clinical evaluation at the last control was significantly more favorable for A (satisfactory D0–2, RS0–2, and E1 in 95%) versus B (satisfactory in 89%) (P = 0.02). Conclusion In the long term HD achieves very satisfactory results with the decrease/disappearance of chest pain possibly present in regular achalasia. The clinical-radiological-manometric patterns of type 3 achalasia should be revised, to eliminate eventual misunderstandings.

Rapid Drink Challenge During High-resolution Manometry for Evaluation of Esophageal Emptying in Treated Achalasia

Incomplete esophageal emptying is a key variable predicting symptom relapse after achalasia treatment. Although optimally evaluated using the timed barium esophagogram (TBE), incomplete esophageal emptying can also be identified on rapid drink challenge (RDC) performed during high-resolution manometry. We evaluated if RDC differentiates complete from incomplete esophageal emptying in treated patients with achalasia, against a TBE gold standard. Unselected treated patients with achalasia with both TBE (200 mL of low-density barium suspension) and RDC (200 mL of water in sitting position) were enrolled in 5 tertiary referral centers. TBE barium column height at 1, 2, and 5 minutes were compared with RDC variables: pressurizations >20 mmHg, maximal RDC pressurization, proportion of RDC time occupied by pressurizations, trans-esophagogastric junction gradient, and integrated relaxation pressure. Of 175 patients recruited (mean age, 59 years; 47% female), 138 (79%) were in clinical remission. Complete TBE emptying occurred in 45.1% at 1 minute, 64.0% at 2 minutes, and 73.1% at 5 minutes. RDC integrated relaxation pressure correlated strongly with TBE column height, and a 10-mmHg threshold discriminated complete from incomplete emptying at all 3 TBE time points with area under receiver operating characteristic curves of 0.85, 0.87, and 0.85, respectively. This threshold had high negative predictive values for complete emptying (88% at 2 minutes, 94% at 5 minutes), and modest positive predictive values for incomplete emptying (77% at 2 minutes, 62% at 5 minutes). RDC during high-resolution manometry is an effective surrogate for TBE in assessing esophageal emptying in treated patients with achalasia.

Timed barium swallow: Esophageal stasis varies markedly across subtypes of esophagogastric junction obstruction.

Timed barium swallow (TBS) is a recommended ancillary investigation in evaluation of esophagogastric junction (EGJ) obstruction, yet there are little data comparing esophageal stasis across subtypes. A retrospective cohort study was performed. All type III achalasia diagnosed between November 2016 and November 2020 were included, along with matched numbers of consecutive types I and II and conclusive EGJOO cases with concurrent TBS evaluation. Co-primary outcomes were TBS retention at 1 and 5min. Secondary outcomes were symptoms and manometric metrics of EGJ function and peristaltic integrity. One hundred patients were included (25 each of types I-III and conclusive EGJOO). TBS retention measured by height and width at 1 and 5min differed significantly across the four subtypes (p<0.0001 all comparisons), with esophageal stasis tending to be significantly greater for types I and II achalasia (88% and 84% with >5cm column at 5min) compared to type III and EGJOO (24% and 8% with >5cm column; p<0.0001). Eckardt symptom severity was similar across subtypes (p=0.30). Magnitude of esophageal stasis and integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) were uncorrelated (R=0.21). In EGJOO, the number of swallows with intact peristalsis inversely correlated with barium column height (R=-0.49) and those with disordered peristalsis were more likely to have any residual barium at 5min compared to those without disordered peristalsis (43% vs. 0%; p=0.02). Timed barium swallow findings differed markedly with significantly less esophageal stasis in type III achalasia and EGJOO, despite similar symptom severity and no correlation between degree of emptying and IRP. Preservation of peristalsis may underlie this finding in EGJOO.

558 OUTCOMES OF PER ORAL ENDOSCOPIC MYOTOMY IN ACHALASIA IN PATIENTS WITH END-STAGE ESOPHAGUS

Abstract Per oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has emerged as a favorable alterative to Heller myotomy for achalasia. However data is limited on the effectiveness in palliation of symptoms in patients who have an esophagus with a sigmoid/tortuous configuration, or a mega-esophagus with width more than 5 cm, due to long-standing achalasia. Our objective is to investigate the outcomes after POEM procedure in patients diagnosed with achalasia and considered end-stage. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted in a large hospital between April 2014 and July 2019. A total of 504 patients were identified with 218 undergoing POEM during the study time period of which 57 patients had a sigmoid or tortuous esophagus, and/or had a barium column width of more than 5 cm on timed barium esophagograms (TBE). Primary outcome was symptom relief during follow-up, defined as a post-operative Eckardt score ≤ 3. We also explored integrated resting pressure (IRP) on manometry, barium column height and width on TBE, complications and procedure related parameters. Statistical analyses were performed using R. Results Significant decrease in median Eckardt scores were observed, 7.5 [6,8.8] pre-operatively to 0 [0,1] at 2 months (p &amp;lt; 0.001). At 2 years, 12 of 14 patients (85%), reported scores of ≤3. Improvements at 2 months were noted in median IRP (25.4 mmHg [15.5, 35.9] vs. 4.0 mmHg [2.2,9.0]), 1 min TBE height (11.5 cm [7.5,15.0] vs. 6.8 cm [4.7,9.0]) and width (5.0 cm [4.1,6.1] vs. 2.8 cm [1.9,3.1]), p &amp;lt; 0.001. At 2 years, they were 9.5 cm [5,12.8] and 3.0 cm [2.4,4.5], respectively. Post-operative pH studies in 35(61%) patients demonstrated a DeMeester score ≥ 14.72 in 17(49%) patients. Almost all patients reported return to activities of daily living within 7 days. Conclusion POEM is an effective and safe modality in achalasia patients with end-stage esophagus. Patients in this cohort historically have had poor outcome to interventions and our data shows excellent short-to-medium term outcome with low morbidity after POEM. Given its efficacy, minimal invasiveness and short return to function, POEM is a reasonable first and gold standard palliative therapy in this difficult cohort and should be attempted before considering esophagectomy.

Peroral endoscopic myotomy provides effective palliation in type III achalasia

BackgroundType III achalasia outcomes have historically been met with limited success after conventional laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) and pneumatic dilation. Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has emerged as a promising alterative for a multitude of reasons. Our objective was to investigate POEM outcomes in palliating type III achalasia. MethodsA retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database was conducted in a tertiary care institution between April 2014 and July 2019. The primary outcome was postoperative Eckardt score. We also explored the effect of lower esophageal sphincter (LES) integrated resting pressure (IRP) on manometry, barium column height and width, and complications. Standard statistical methods were applied using R. ResultsA total of 518 patients in the achalasia database were identified, with 308 patients undergoing LHM and 210 undergoing POEM during the study period. POEM was used for type III achalasia in 36 patients (median age, 60 years; 61.7% male), with a median operative time of 85 minutes (interquartile range [IQR], 71-115 minutes) and follow-up of 1 year (IQR, 0.16-2.25 years). Within the POEM group, 11 patients (33%) had previous interventions, including Botox injections to the LES (n = 7), pneumatic dilation (n = 1), and LHM (n = 3). A significant decrease in median Eckardt score was observed (7 preoperatively [IQR, 6-8.75] vs 0 postoperatively [IQR, 0-1]; P < .01). Similar improvements after POEM were noted in median LES IRPs (25.5 mmHg vs 4.5 mmgHg; P < .01), 1-minute barium column height (10 cm vs 0 cm; P < .01), and 1-minute barium column width (2 cm vs 0 cm; P < .01). Patients reported a return to activities of daily living in a median of 7 days (IQR, 3-7 days). Three patients experienced complications, including mucosal perforation resolving with conservative management (n = 1), readmission for bleeding duodenal ulcer responding to proton pump inhibitors (n = 1), and readmission for dysphagia and rehydration (n = 1). Postoperative esophageal pH studies were conducted in 21 patients (62%), demonstrating a Demeester score of >14.72 in 13 patients (62%). ConclusionsPOEM provides effective and durable palliation for type III achalasia, as demonstrated by symptom relief, esophageal manometry, and radiographic measurement. Considering its low morbidity profile, POEM should be considered as first-line therapy in this challenging disease subtype.

Comparison of Short Versus Long Esophageal Myotomy in Cases With Idiopathic Achalasia: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background/AimsPer-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is an established treatment for achalasia. The technique of POEM is still evolving and the impact of length of esophageal myotomy on the outcomes of POEM is not known. In this study, we aim to compare the outcomes of short (3 cm) versus long (6 cm and above) esophageal myotomy in patients undergoing POEM for achalasia cardia.MethodsConsecutive patients with idiopathic achalasia (type I and II) were randomized to receive short (3 cm) or long esophageal myotomy (≥ 6 cm). Both groups were compared for clinical success, operative time, adverse events, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).ResultsSeventy-one consecutive patients with type I and II achalasia underwent POEM with short (n = 34) or long (n = 37) esophageal myotomy techniques. Mean length of esophageal myotomy in short and long groups was 2.76 ± 0.41 and 7.97 ± 2.40, respectively (P < 0.001). Mean operative time was significantly shorter in short myotomy group (44.03 ± 13.78 minutes and 72.43 ± 27.28 minutes, P < 0.001). Clinical success was comparable in both arms at 1-year (Eckardt score 0.935 ± 0.929 vs 0.818 ± 0.983, P = 0.627). Improvement in objective parameters including integrated relaxation pressure and barium column height at 5 minutes was similar in both groups. GERD was detected in 50.88% patients with no significant difference in short and long myotomy groups (44.44% vs 56.67%, P = 0.431).ConclusionsA short esophageal myotomy is non-inferior to long myotomy with regards to clinical success, adverse events, and GERD in cases with type I and II achalasia. Reduced operating duration favors short esophageal myotomy in these patients.

340 EXPANDING THE ROLE OF POEM TO ESOPHAGEAL EPIPHRENIC DIVERTICULA—FEASIBLE, SAFE AND EFFECTIVE.

Abstract Epiphrenic diverticula (ED) is a rare disorder which can be associated with significant surgical morbidity. Presence of an esophageal motility disorder, often achalasia, is classically associated with ED with some arguing that symptoms are primarily attributed to the motility disorder rather than the diverticula itself. The role of peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is expanding for palliation of achalasia. The objective of our study is to investigate the outcomes of POEM in patients with epiphrenic diverticula. Methods A retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database was conducted in a tertiary care institution between April 2014 and July 2019. A total of 217 patients receiving a POEM during the study time period were identified with 13 patients having ED. Video recordings of POEM with and without ED were compared for technical differences. Patient demographics, prior esophageal procedures and epiphrenic diverticula characteristics were collected. Primary outcome was post-operative Eckardt scores. We also explored integrated resting pressure (IRP) on manometry, barium column height and width, complications and patient reported outcomes. Standard statistical methods were applied using R. Results Among 13 patients with ED (median age 74.2, 69% male), 7 small and 6 large diverticula were identified. No post-operative complications were noted. The median Eckardt score significantly decreased from 8 [IQR 5–9] pre POEM to 0 [IQR 0–2] post POEM, with similar improvements in median IRPs (24.5 mmHg [IQR 16.9–31.3] vs. 4.3 mmHg [IQR 2.4–7.6], 1 min barium column height (9.2 cm [IQR 6.3–17.9] vs. 3.2 cm [IQR 0–7.1] and 1 min barium column width (3.3 cm [IQR 2.7–3.5] vs. 0.75 cm [IQR 0–3.7]. Post-operative pH studies were conducted in 7 (53.8%) patients demonstrating a DeMeester score of more than 14.72 in 5 (71.4%) patients. Conclusion We demonstrate that POEM is technically feasible, safe and associated with excellent outcomes in patients with small and large diverticula. In our study cohort no further surgical therapy was required to address the diverticula. Reflux was managed medically. Considering its low morbidity profile POEM should be considered for therapy in selected patients with epiphrenic diverticula.

Implementation of a Timed Barium Esophagram Protocol for Assessment of Esophageal Function in Children.

Timed barium esophagram (TBE) is a fluoroscopic study that is widely employed as an adjunctive tool for diagnosing esophageal emptying disorders in adults (eg, achalasia, esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction [EGJOO]) and for following response to treatment. We aimed to describe the characteristics and feasibility of a pediatric TBE protocol and provide a first report of the potential value of TBE for assessment of esophageal emptying in the pediatric population. Retrospective chart review of pediatric patients at a tertiary pediatric hospital who underwent TBE from October 2017 to October 2019. Patient and test characteristics were summarized using descriptive statistics. Results from patients who had both TBE and high-resolution esophageal manometry (HRM) were used to generate ROC curves for TBE to identify esophageal emptying disorders. Twenty-two patients underwent 25 TBE. Fourteen of 23 (61%) received 150 mL barium volume per protocol. Nearly half (42%) of subjects could tolerate ingesting barium within 20 seconds. Nine individuals underwent HRM. The sensitivity of standard adult TBE criteria (1 cm barium column height at 5 minutes) to detect emptying disorder was 100%, specificity 40%. A modified diagnostic cutoff (1.6 cm height at 5 minutes) offered 100% sensitivity, 80% specificity. TBE is feasible and should be considered an adjunctive noninvasive screen for impaired esophageal emptying in children. There was heterogeneous adherence to protocol for timing and volume of barium; however, studies remained interpretable. This population may benefit from different diagnostic cutoffs than adults, and clinical judgment should be used until specific diagnostic cutoffs are determined in children.

The timed barium swallow and its relationship to symptoms in achalasia: Analysis of surface area and emptying rate.

Timed barium swallow (TBS) is used to objectively measure response following achalasia therapy; however, findings can be discordant with symptoms. We hypothesized that measurement of surface area of the residual barium column would improve its utility in measuring outcome. In a single-center cohort, achalasia patients undergoing therapy between September 2015-2016 who had TBS were included. Four metrics of emptying were studied: Post-therapy residual barium (a) absolute height and (b) surface area and percentage reduction in (c) residual height (%H) and (d) surface area (%SA) compared to pretherapy. Metrics were evaluated against symptom response (Eckardt score). Twenty-four achalasics (median age 43year; 13 males) were included; 14 received pneumatic dilatation, and 10 had peroral endoscopic myotomy. Treatment resulted in significant reduction in median Eckardt score (7 to 1; P=.03), mean residual barium column height (14.7±8.7 to 7.9±6.0cm; P=.01) and surface area (52.7±43.5 to 24.5±23.6cm2 ; P=.02). There were 4 (17%) initial non-responders (Eckardt>3). % SA was best at discriminating between responders and non-responders (area under curve 0.85±0.08; sensitivity 100%, specificity 80%). Concordance with symptomatic response following therapy was 83% when using 45% as the cutoff for surface area reduction compared to pretherapy. Eight patients whose static barium height was discordant with symptoms became concordant when % SA was used as a measure of response. Change in barium surface area is a superior measure of esophageal emptying and better correlates with treatment response than the conventional 5-minute barium height in defining objective response to achalasia therapy.

Is esophageal manometry essential for the diagnosis of achalasia? Identifying patients with achalasia by the esophageal clearance method.

Achalasia is a disease characterized by inadequate relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and impaired peristalsis, for which esophageal motor function testing is essential in making a definitive diagnosis. However, the diffusion rate of esophageal pressure testing in Japan is low. We, therefore, examined whether achalasia could be identified by esophageal clearance testing with low-density barium (Timed Barium Esophagogram: TBE). 126 cases (62 males, median age of 46years), excluding those who had not undergone TBE during their initial laparoscopic Heller-Dor surgery, were chosen as the subjects from among those who were diagnosed with achalasia from November 2012 when HRM was introduced. The type of dilation, maximum esophageal transverse diameter, and esophageal clearance measurements by TBE were retrospectively examined. With respect to TBE, 200mL of 45 weight% low-density barium was ingested as quickly as possible, after which the barium column heights (H0, H1, H2, and H5) were measured 1min, 2min, and 5min following ingestion. The types of dilation indicated included: straight type (105 cases, 83%); sigmoid type (20 cases, 16%); and advanced sigmoid type (1 case, 1%). The maximum transverse diameter of the esophagus was 45 (34-54) mm, with Grade I (d < 30mm) in 33 cases, Grade II (35mm < d < 60mm) in 75 cases, and Grade III (d < 60mm) in 18 cases. The values for H0, H1, H2, and H5 were 162 (117-201) mm, 142 (98-199) mm, 130 (94-183) mm, and 119 (77-178) mm, respectively. 114 cases (90.5%) were not cleared after 5min, while 12 cases (9.5%) were cleared by 5min later (H1 = 0 + H2 = 0 + H5 = 0) and 7 cases (5.6%) by 2min later (H1 = 0 + H2 = 0), with only 6 cases (4.8%) having complete clearance within 1min (H1 = 0). Moreover, the degree of dilatation in patients with complete clearance within 1min was three patients (2.4%) each for Grade I and Grade II, respectively. Approximately 2.4% of achalasia cases had mostly normal esophageal clearance and no esophageal dilation. Based on the state of esophageal clearance by TBE and the maximum transverse diameter of the esophagus, it seems by and large possible to identify achalasia cases.

Short-term outcome after singular hydraulic EsoFLIP dilation in patients with achalasia: A feasibility study.

Achalasia is a chronic esophageal motility disorder characterized by impaired relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter, determined by an elevated integrated relaxation pressure (IRP>15mmHg) and absent peristalsis. Goal of treatment is facilitation of flow across the EGJ but minimizing postinterventional reflux. A new advanced hydraulic dilation technology, the esophageal functional luminal imaging probe (EsoFLIP), allows dynamic monitoring of hollow organ dimensions while performing hydraulic dilation. The aim of our study was to evaluate the treatment response after single EsoFLIP dilation in achalasia patients. Dilation was performed under endoscopic control with the EsoFLIP device using a self-developed dilation algorithm. Symptom scores were assessed by the Eckardt score (ES) before and 1-4weeks after intervention. Esophageal emptying before and after intervention was recorded with timed barium esophagogram. We studied 28 consecutive untreated achalasia patients (8 female) with a median age of 43years (range 19-82years) undergoing their first dilation performed with the EsoFLIP, aiming at a maximum dilation diameter of 25mm. Total ES was significantly reduced from 7 at baseline to 2 postintervention (P<.001). The median height of the barium column after 5minutes was significantly reduced from 4.5cm at baseline to 1.7cm (P=.0087). No major complications occurred. We found good efficacy in both subjective and objective short-term treatment outcome after singular EsoFLIP dilation in treatment-naive achalasia patients. Our findings suggest that EsoFLIP is a promising dilation technology that should be further studied in a larger, controlled setting with longer follow-up.