Integrated Relaxation Pressure Research Articles

Midesophageal diverticulum with elevated intrabolus pressure: a case report

BackgroundEsophageal diverticulum is commonly associated with esophageal motility disorders, which can be diagnosed using high-resolution manometry (HRM) according to the Chicago classification. Although midesophageal diverticulum (M-ED) is associated with inflammatory processes, esophageal motility disorders have been recently identified as an etiology of M-ED.Case presentationWe present the case of a patient with M-ED and elevated intrabolus pressure (IBP), which did not meet the criteria for esophageal motility disorders according to the Chicago classification. A 71-year-old man presented with gradually worsening dysphagia for two years and was diagnosed as having an 8-cm-long M-ED and multiple small diverticula in lower esophagus. HRM revealed a median integrated relaxation pressure of 14.6 mmHg, a distal latency of 6.4 s, and an average maximum IBP of 35.7 mmHg. He underwent thoracoscopic resection of the M-ED and myotomy, which successfully alleviated the symptoms and reduced the intrabolus pressure to normal levels.ConclusionsIt is important to recognize the esophageal diverticulum pathology with HRM findings even in cases where the results may not meet the Chicago classification and to include myotomy based on the results.

Impaired esophagogastric junction relaxation and lung transplantation outcomes.

The implications of impaired esophagogastric junction relaxation (i.e. esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction and achalasia) in lung transplants recipients (LTRs) are unclear. Thus, we examined the prevalence and clinical outcomes of LTRs with an abnormally elevated integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) on high-resolution manometry before lung transplantation (LTx). After IRB approval, we reviewed data on LTRs who underwent LTx between January 2019 and August 2022 with a preoperative median IRP >15mmHg. Differences in overall survival and chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD)-free survival between LTRs with a normalized median IRP after LTx (N-IRP) and those with persistently high IRP (PH-IRP) were assessed using Kaplan-Meier curves and the log-rank test. During the study period, 352 LTx procedures were performed; 44 (12.5%) LTRs had an elevated IRP before LTx, and 37 (84.1%) completed a postoperative manometry assessment (24 [70.6%] males; mean age, 65.2 ± 9.1years). The median IRP before and after LTx was 18.7 ± 3.8mmHg and 12 ± 5.6mmHg, respectively (P < 0.001); the median IRP normalized after LTx in 24 (64.9%) patients. Two-year overall survival trended lower in the N-IRP group than the PH-IRP group (77.2% vs. 92.3%, P =0.086), but CLAD-free survival (P =0.592) and rates of primary graft dysfunction (P =0.502) and acute cellular rejection (P =0.408) were similar. An abnormally elevated IRP was common in LTx candidates; however, it normalized in roughly two-thirds of patients after LTx. Two-year survival trended higher in the PH-IRP group, despite similar rates of primary graft dysfunction and acute cellular rejection as well as similar CLAD-free survival between the groups.

Esophago-gastric junction findings on high resolution impedance manometry in children with esophageal atresia.

Using high resolution impedance manometry (HRIM), this study characterized the esophago-gastric junction (EGJ) dynamics in children with esophageal atresia (EA). Esophageal HRIM was performed in patients with EA aged less than 18 years. Objective motility patterns were analyzed, and EGJ data reported. Controls were pediatric patients without EA undergoing investigations for consideration of fundoplication surgery. Seventy-five patients (M:F = 43:32, median age 1 year 3 months [3 months-17 years 4 months]) completed 133 HRIM studies. The majority (64/75, 85.3%) had EA with distal tracheo-esophageal fistula. Compared with controls, liquid swallows were poorer in patients with EA, as evident by significant differences in distension pressure emptying and bolus flow time (BFT). The integrated relaxation pressure for thin liquid swallows was significantly different between EA types, as well as when comparing patients with EA with and without previous esophageal dilatations. The BFT for solid swallows was significantly different when compared with EA types. We have utilized HRIM in patients with EA to demonstrate abnormalities in their long-term EGJ function. These abnormalities correlate with poorer esophageal compliance and reduced esophageal peristalsis across the EGJ. Understanding the EGJ function in patients with EA will allow us to tailor long-term management to specific patients.

Analysis of the Correlation Between Dynamic Characteristics and Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease.

To investigate the esophageal motility characteristics of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and their relationship with symptoms. We examined 101 patients diagnosed with GERD by endoscopy and divided them into 3 groups as follows: nonerosive reflux disease (NERD), reflux esophagitis, and Barrett esophagus. Esophageal high-resolution manometry and the GERD Questionnaire were used to investigate the characteristics of esophageal dynamics and symptoms. In addition, the reflux symptom index was completed and the patients were divided into 7 groups according to symptoms. We then determined the correlation between dynamic esophageal characteristics and clinical symptoms. Upper (UES) and lower (LES) esophageal sphincter pressures and the 4-second integrated relaxation pressure in the RE group were lower than those in the NERD group. The 4-second integrated relaxation pressure in the Barrett esophagus group was also lower than that in the NERD group. In the analysis of extraesophageal symptoms, high-resolution manometry showed significant differences in UES pressures among all groups. Further subgroup analysis showed that compared with the group without extraesophageal symptoms, the UES pressure of the groups with pharyngeal foreign body sensation, throat clearing, and multiple extraesophageal symptoms was lower. As GERD severity increases, motor dysfunction of the LES and esophageal body gradually worsens, and the LES plays an important role in GERD development. Decreased UES pressure plays an important role in the occurrence of extraesophageal symptoms, which is more noticeable in patients with pharyngeal foreign body sensation and throat clearing.

The Impact of Chronic Cannabis Use on Esophageal Motility in Patients Referred for Esophageal Manometry.

Tetrahydrocannabinol, the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, binds with high affinity to the cannabinoid 1 receptor. Small randomized controlled studies using conventional manometry have shown that the cannabinoid 1 receptor can modulate esophageal function, namely transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxation frequency and lower esophageal sphincter tone. The effect of cannabinoids on esophageal motility in patients referred for esophageal manometry has not been fully elucidated using high-resolution esophageal manometry (HREM). We aimed to characterize the clinical effect of chronic cannabis use on esophageal motility utilizing HREM. Patients who underwent HREM from 2009 to 2019 were identified at 4 academic medical centers. The study group consisted of patients with a noted history of chronic cannabis use, a diagnosis of cannabis-related disorder, or a positive urine toxicology screen. Age and gender-matched patients with no history of cannabis use were selected to form the control group. Data on HREM metrics based on the Chicago classification V3, and the prevalence of esophageal motility disorders were compared. Confounding effects of BMI and medications on esophageal motility were adjusted for. Chronic cannabis use was found to be an independent negative predictor of weak swallows (β=-8.02, P =0.0109), but not a predictor of failed swallows ( P =0.6890). The prevalence of ineffective esophageal motility was significantly lower in chronic cannabis users compared with nonusers (OR=0.44, 95% CI 0.19-0.93, P =0.0384). There was no significant difference in the prevalence of other esophageal motility disorders between the 2 cohorts. In patients with dysphagia as their primary indication for HREM, chronic cannabis use was found to be independently associated with increased median integrated relaxation pressure (β=6.638, P =0.0153) and increased mean lower esophageal sphincter resting pressure (β=10.38, P =0.0084). Chronic cannabis use is associated with decreased weak swallows and reduced prevalence of ineffective esophageal motility in patients referred for esophageal manometry. In patients referred for dysphagia, chronic cannabis use is associated with increased integrated relaxation pressure and lower esophageal sphincter resting pressure, though not to levels above the normal range.

Manometric identikit of a functioning and effective fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease in the high-resolution manometry ERA.

The pathophysiological and clinical value of performing High-Resolution Manometry (HRM) after laparoscopic fundoplication (LF) for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is still unclear and debated. We sought to establish the HRM parameters indicative of functioning fundoplications, and whether HRM could distinguish them from tight or defective ones. The study involved patients with GERD who underwent laparoscopic Nissen (LN) or Toupet (LT) fundoplication between 2010 and 2022. HRM and 24-h pH monitoring were performed before and 6months after surgery. The study population was divided into 5 groups: LN and LT patients with normal 24h-pH findings (LNpH- and LTpH-, respectively); LN and LT patients with pathological 24h-pH findings (LNpH+ and LTpH+groups, respectively); and patients with a postoperative dysphagia intensity score >2 (Dysphagia group). The novel Hiatal Morphology (HM) classification was applied, envisaging 3 different subtypes: HM1 (normal), HM2 (intrathoracic fundoplication), and HM3 (slipped fundoplication). Among the 132 patients recruited during the study period, 46 were in the LNpH- group, 51 in the LTpH- group, 15 in the LNpH+group, 7 in the LTpH+group, and 5 in the Dysphagia group. In multivariate analysis, postoperative abdominal lower esophageal sphincter length (p=0.001) and HM2 (p<0.001) were both independently associated with surgical failure. Integrated relaxation pressure was significantly higher in the Dysphagia group than in the LNpH- group. This study generated reference HRM values for an effective LF, and confirms that using HRM to assess the neo-sphincter and HM improves the clinical assessment in cases of symptom recurrence.

A212 SYMPTOMS IN PATIENTS WITH NORMAL ESOPHAGEAL MOTILITY MAY DIFFER BASED ON AGE AND SEX

Abstract Background High resolution esophageal manometry (HREM) is used to diagnose esophageal motility disorders. While esophageal symptoms including dysphagia are common and seen in up to 20% of adults, a minority of symptomatic patients have esophageal dysmotility, when defined by the Chicago Classification v4 (CCv4). The generation of esophageal symptoms in a patient with normal esophageal motor function is complex, but may relate to visceral hypersensitivity, inappropriate pain perception or unidentified contraction abnormalities. The Esophageal Symptom Questionnaire (ESQ-30) is a validated tool in the assessment of esophageal symptoms and measures the frequency and severity of dysphagia, reflux and globus through three separate sub-scales (ESQ-D, ESQ-R, ESQ-G respectively). Aims To determine age and sex in esophageal symptoms (as measured by ESQ-30 sub-scales) in a population of symptomatic patients with normal esophageal motility. Methods Retrospective analysis of consecutive reports from HRM studies performed between October 2021 – March 2023 who provided consent for inclusion in the motility databank and completed ESQ-30 questionnaires. All values expressed as median (IQR: 25-75-centile). Spearman’s bivariate correlations were performed between ESQ-D, ESQ-R, ESQ-G and manometric variables (IRP, DCI, % failed, and % weak) as well as demographic variables (age). Group means were compared with the non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test. Results Within the study period, 681 patients underwent HREM and had complete ESQ-30 questionnaires. Of these patients, 151 female and 73 male participants (mean age 51.8 +/- 15.2 years) had normal esophageal motility by CCv4. ESQ-D and ESQ-R scores were significantly higher in women in comparison to men. ESQ-D was 10 in women and 5 in men (p=.021), and ESQ-R was 28 in women and 19 in men (p=.029). There was a weak negative correlation between age and reflux symptoms (R2 -.139, p = 0.038). There was no significant difference in manometric parameters between males and females (p ampersand:003E .05 for all comparisons). Dysphagia and globus weakly negatively correlated with median IRP (R2 -.156, p = .019 and R2 -.139, p = .038 for dysphagia and globus respectively). Conclusions In a population of symptomatic patients with normal esophageal motility, symptom profile differed based on age and sex. Women had higher dysphagia and reflux symptoms compared to men, while older patients had lower reflux symptoms. These findings suggest that esophageal sensitivity may vary with age and sex in patients with normal esophageal motility. The finding of higher dysphagia and globus symptoms in patients with lower median IRP (integrated relaxation pressure) is an unexpected finding and may reflect reflux effect. Further studies to assess for the impact of GERD (using 24h pH-metry/MII) on patients with normal esophageal motor function are warranted. Funding Agencies None

Intraoesophageal pressure in patients receiving proximal gastrectomy with hinged double flap method for gastric cancer: a retrospective cohort study

Background: Objective functional assessment of esophagogastric anastomosis in patients who underwent proximal gastrectomy with the hinged double flap method for gastric cancer has not been well investigated. This study aimed to perform a functional analysis of reconstruction using high-resolution impedance manometry (HRIM). Materials and methods: The authors enroled 25 patients who underwent proximal gastrectomy for gastric cancer between May 2015 and April 2020 and subsequently underwent HRIM postoperatively. Eligible questionnaires [Postgastrectomy Syndrome Assessment Scale-37 (PGSAS-37)] were retrieved from 16 patients. The association between HRIM data and PGSAS-37 was analyzed. Results: The amplitudes of distal oesophageal peristaltic waves, contractile front velocity, and distal latency assessed by HRIM were almost normal after surgery. Most patient’s lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) resting pressure created by the hinged double flap was within normal limits. Conversely, LES residual pressure values during swallowing-induced relaxation were abnormally high in most patients, and the lower the values, the more severe the reflux and diarrhoea symptoms (P=0.038, P=0.041, respectively). In addition, even when the integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) was normal, lower values corresponded to more severe reflux symptoms (P=0.020). The required LES pressure may be higher after proximal gastrectomy because of the relatively higher intragastric pressure due to the reduced volume of the remnant stomach. This also suggests that swallowing-induced relaxation of the LES was considered a trigger for oesophageal reflux in post-proximal gastrectomy patients. Conclusion: LES residual pressure and IRP values in HRIM correlated with reflux symptoms in patients after proximal gastrectomy.

Effects of Codeine on Esophageal Peristalsis in Patients With Ineffective Esophageal Motility: Studies Using High-resolution Manometry.

This study aims to evaluate the effects of acute codeine administration on primary and secondary esophageal peristalsis in patients with ineffective esophageal motility (IEM). Eighteen IEM patients (8 women; mean age 37.8 years, range 23-64 years) were enrolled in the study. The patients underwent high-resolution manometry exams, consisting of 10 single wet swallows, multiple rapid swallows, and ten 20 mL rapid air injections to trigger secondary peristalsis. All participants completed 2 separate sessions, including acute administration of codeine (60 mg) and placebo, in a randomized order. Codeine significantly increased the distal contractile integral (566 ± 81 mmHg∙s∙cm vs 247 ± 36 mmHg∙s∙cm, P = 0.001) and shortened distal latency (5.7 ± 0.2 seconds vs 6.5 ± 0.1 seconds, P < 0.001) for primary peristalsis compared with these parameters after placebo treatment. The mean total break length decreased significantly after codeine treatment compared with the length after placebo (P = 0.003). Codeine significantly increased esophagogastric junction-contractile integral (P = 0.028) but did not change the 4-second integrated relaxation pressure (P = 0.794). Codeine significantly decreased the frequency of weak (P = 0.039) and failed contractions (P = 0.009), resulting in increased frequency of normal primary peristalsis (P < 0.136). No significant differences in the ratio of impaired multiple rapid swallows inhibition and parameters of secondary peristalsis were detected. In IEM patients, acute administration of codeine increases contraction vigor and reduces distal latency of primary esophageal peristalsis, but has no effect on secondary peristalsis. Future studies are required to further elucidate clinical relevance of these findings, especially in the setting of gastroesophageal reflux disease with IEM.

Investigating Parkinson's disease with dual high resolution pharyngeal manometry with impedance and videofluoroscopy.

To characterize pharyngeal function in people with Parkinson's Disease using both high resolution impedance manometry (HRIM) and videofluoroscopy (VFSS) and to explore correlations between VFSS and HRIM metrics. All participants received both VFSS and HRIM within 24 h-time window. A standard VFSS protocol (IDDSI 0: 1 mL, 3 mL, 20 mL, and 100 mL) was performed. A solid-state unidirectional catheter (36 pressure sensors) was used to acquire manometric data for triplicate swallows (IDDSI 0: 5 mL, 10 mL, 20 mL), quantitative swallow analysis was completed through Swallowtail™ and SwallowGateway™. Parameters were compared to published norms and statistical tests explored correlational associations (p < 0.05). Twenty-one participants (76% male; mean age 70 years, SD7.16) with mild-moderate severity PD were recruited with 73% reporting Eating Assessment Tool (EAT-10) scores ≥3 indicating swallow impairment. Compared to normal metrics, one third of participants had abnormally elevated hypopharyngeal contractile integral (HPCI), hypopharyngeal peak pressure, upper esophageal sphincter (UES) integrated relaxation pressure (UES IRP), and reduced UES maximum admittance. Five participants showed compromised swallow safety (Penetration-Aspiration Scale score ≥6). One third of participants had abnormal VFSS values for pharyngoesophageal segment (PES) opening duration, maximum PES opening distance, and maximum hyoid displacement measures. Some HRIM metrics had a strong correlation with pharyngeal VFSS measures (r > 0.60, p < 0.05). This study identifies early manometric signs of pharyngeal dysfunction in people with PD. The congruence of the VFSS and HRIM measures confirms the hypothesis of insidious early decline in swallow function in PD despite maintenance of airway safety (i.e., low aspiration rates).

A Comparison of Functional Luminal Imaging Probe With High-resolution Manometry, Timed Barium Esophagram, and pH Impedance Testing to Evaluate Functional Luminal Imaging Probe's Diagnostic Capabilities.

The aims of this study are to determine the functional luminal imaging probe's (FLIP) diagnostic utility by comparing FLIP measurements with results from other esophageal evaluation standards. The FLIP is an esophageal evaluation technique performed at the time of endoscopy. Few studies have evaluated FLIP diagnostic capabilities compared with the established testing techniques, including high-resolution manometry (HRIM), time barium esophagram (TBE), and 24-hour impedance-pH monitoring. A retrospective review was performed for 413 preintervention patients who underwent FLIP testing during endoscopy. Data from HRIM, 24-hour pH monitoring, and TBE were compared. Abnormal Distensibility Index (DI) was associated with abnormal integrated relaxation pressure (IRP; P = 0.003). Average DI was higher in patients with abnormal IRP (>15 mm Hg) when a hiatal hernia was present (P = 0.025). The total agreement between correlated diagnoses from FLIP and HRIM was 33.5%. DI was not associated with acid exposure time on pH monitoring. Agreement between FLIP and TBE was 49% with a sensitivity of 98.1% and a specificity of 36.5%. A 60 mL distension had a significantly lower detection rate than 40 mL and 50 mL for active peristalsis and was unaffected by pressure (P < 0.05). FLIP as an adjunct to HRIM is supported by strong metric correlation. FLIP was not correlated to pH monitoring findings, suggesting FLIP is not useful in reflux assessment. The agreement between FLIP and TBE was lower than in previous studies. Hiatal hernia impacted the normality between DI and IRP, not between FLIP and TBE. We suggest analyzing peristaltic patterns on panometry at all fill volumes to optimize detection.

Integrated Relaxation Pressure and Its Diagnostic Ability May Vary According to the Conditions Used for HREM Recording.

Integrated Residual Pressure (IRP) measured under conditions alternative to supine single swallows may provide clinically useful information regarding EGJ relaxation. This study aimed to compare IRP values obtained under different situations and explore their potential clinical utility. We analyzed and compared the values of IRP obtained from healthy volunteers and patients with suspected achalasia during supine single swallows (Ssup-IRP), sitting single swallows (Ssit-IRP), supine multiple rapid swallows (Msup-IRP), and sitting multiple rapid swallows (Msit-IRP). We analyzed the HREM recordings of 40 healthy volunteers and 53 patients with suspected achalasia. The four metrics were significantly different from each other in healthy volunteers (Ssup-IRP > Msup-IRP > Ssit-IRP > Msit-IRP) and their corresponding 95th percentiles were substantially distinct (Ssup-IRP: 25.3mmHg, Ssit-IRP: 20.9mmHg, Msup-IRP: 15.9mmHg, and Msit-IRP: 11.9mm Hg, respectively). Complete agreement among the four metrics in predicting abnormal IRP was found in 39 of the 47 patients with suspected achalasia who completed the protocol. Optimal cutoffs derived from ROC curve analysis demonstrated ≥ 0.95 specificities for detection of impaired EGJ relaxation among patients with suspected achalasia. Among the eight patients with suspected achalasia with normal Ssup-IRP, five demonstrated abnormal Msit-IRP and four abnormal Ssit-IRP. Significant differences of IRP exist depending on the measurement situation, indicating that correct interpretation of IRP values requires specific cutoffs for each situation.The sensitivities of Ssit-IRP and Msit-IRP in detecting defective EGJ relaxation appear to be slightly higher than that of Ssup-IRP.

Transoral incisionless fundoplication with or without hiatal hernia repair for gastroesophageal reflux disease after peroral endoscopic myotomy.

Background and study aims Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) following peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) occurs in 40% to 60% of patients. There are limited data evaluating antireflux surgery or transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) for refractory post-POEM GERD. Patients and methods In a single-center prospective cohort study, consecutive patients with medically refractory post-POEM regurgitation and/or GERD treated with TIF or combined laparoscopic hernia repair and TIF (cTIF) were evaluated. Baseline evaluation: GERD-Health Related Quality of Life (GERD-HQRL) and Reflux Symptom Questionnaire 7-day recall (RESQ-7) questionnaires, EGD, high-resolution manometry (HRM), 48-hour pH test off proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and impedance planimetry of the esophagogastric junction (EGJ) to calculate the diameter distensibility index (EGJ-DI). A PPI was taken twice daily for 2 weeks after TIF and restarted later if required. Patients returned 9 to 12 months after treatment when all preoperative studies were repeated. Quality of life, pH studies and EGJ metrics before and after antireflux surgery were compared. Results Seventeen patients underwent TIF (n=2, 12%) or cTIF (n=15, 88%) a mean 25±15 months after POEM. At follow-up a mean of 9±1 months after TIF/cTIF, patients required less frequent daily PPIs (n=0.001), were more satisfied (P=0.008), had improved GERD-HQRL (P=0.001), less intensity and frequency of GERD (P=0.001) and fewer reflux episodes (P=0.04) by pH testing. There was no change in EGJ-DI, EGJ diameter, integrated relaxation pressure, % total time pH <4, or DeMeester score. Conclusions TIF and cTIF for difficult-to-control post-POEM GERD appear safe, decrease PPI use and reflux episodes, and improve QOL without significant change in IRP, EGJ compliance, diameter or esophageal acid exposure time.

Comparing Pre- and Post-Operative Findings in Patients Who Underwent Laparoscopic Proximal Gastrectomy With a Double-Flap Technique: A Study on High-Resolution Manometry, Impedance pH Monitoring, and Esophagogastroduodenoscopy Findings.

Laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy (LPG) is a viable choice for treating proximal gastric lesions. However, the occurrence of severe reflux has limited its widespread adoption. To address this issue, the double flap technique (DFT), which incorporates artificial lower esophageal sphincteroplasty, has been developed to prevent reflux problems after proximal gastrectomy. In this study, we aimed to investigate the usefulness of this technique using high-resolution manometry (HRM), impedance pH monitoring, and esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). The findings of pre- and postoperative 6-month HRM, pH monitoring, and EGD were compared for 9 patients who underwent LPG with DFT for various proximal gastric lesions at Incheon St. Mary's Hospital from January 2021 to December. A total of 9 patients underwent proximal gastrectomy. Approximately half of the patients had Hill's grade under II preoperatively, whereas all patients had Hill's grades I and II in EGD findings. In the HRM test, there was no significant difference between distal contractile integral (1,412.46±1,168.51 vs. 852.66±495.62 mmHg·cm·s, P=0.087) and integrated relaxation pressure (12.54±8.97 vs. 8.33±11.30 mmHg, P=0.27). The average lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure was 29.19±14.51 mmHg preoperatively, which did not differ from 19.97±18.03 mmHg after the surgery (P=0.17). DeMeester score (7.02±6.36 vs. 21.92±36.17, P=0.21) and total acid exposure time (1.49±1.48 vs. 5.61±10.17, P=0.24) were slightly higher, but the differences were not statistically significant. There is no significant functional difference in HRM and impedance pH monitoring tests after DFT. DFT appears to be useful in preserving LES function following proximal gastrectomy.

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

Some achalasia patients exhibit esophageal contractile activity on follow-up after treatment, yet its importance remains unclear. We aimed to identify factors associated with presence of contractility after treatment and to assess its impact on timed barium esophagram (TBE) and clinical outcomes. Patients with type I or II achalasia on baseline high-resolution manometry (HRM) who completed HRM, TBE, and functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP) after treatment were retrospectively identified. Contractility was defined on post-treatment HRM as presence of at least 1 supine swallow with DCI ≥100 mmHg s cm. One hundred twenty-two patients were included (mean age 48 ± 17 years, 50% female). At follow-up evaluation after treatment (54% peroral endoscopic myotomy, 24% pneumatic dilation, 22% laparoscopic Heller myotomy), 61 (50%) patients had contractility on HRM. Patients with contractility (compared to those without) more frequently had type II achalasia (84% vs 57%, p = 0.001) and a post-treatment normal EGJ opening classification on FLIP (69% vs 49%; p < 0.001). In the subgroup of patients with post-treatment integrated relaxation pressure <15 mmHg and normal EGJ opening on FLIP (n = 53), those with contractility had a lower median column height on TBE at 1 min (4 vs 7 cm, p = 0.002) and 5 min (0 vs 5 cm, p = 0.001). In patients with "abnormal" EGJ metrics, patients with contractility showed lower symptom scores (median Eckardt score 2 vs 3, p = 0.03). Occurring more frequently in type II achalasia, and if adequate EGJ opening is achieved after treatment, esophageal contractility may contribute to improved esophageal emptying and improved symptoms in non-spastic achalasia. Preservation of esophageal body muscle could improve outcomes in these patients.

Robotic Heller's myotomy using the new Hugo™ RAS system: first worldwide report.

Achalasia is a rare disorder of the esophagus characterized by motor dysfunction in the esophagus and relaxation failure of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Currently, surgical myotomy procedures are considered the standard of care. Robotic Heller's myotomy (RHM) with fundoplication has been gaining popularity due to documented advantages in the precision of myotomy as well as avoiding the potential reflux following per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). To the best of our knowledge, RHM has thus far has been performed exclusively by the da Vinci surgical system. The new Hugo RAS™ system offers a unique modular design and an open console which offers better maneuverability and docking options. In this study, we present the first worldwide series of patients undergoing RHM using the new Hugo RAS™ platform. Our objective is to propose optimal operating configuration and setup to fully harness the advantages of the unique modular design of this system. Ten consecutive achalasia patients underwent Robotic Heller's myotomy (RHM) with the Hugo RAS™ system. We prospectively collected patient data, including demographics, comorbidities, ASA class, Eckardt scores, pre-operative manometric data, and EndoFlip parameters. Additionally, we recorded the docking and total operative times. Between December 2022 and August 2023, 10 patients underwent RHM with the Hugo™ RAS system. Patients had a median age of 42.5 years, 60% were female, and mean BMI was 23.2. Fifty percent had achalasia type 2 and 50% type 1. The median pre-operative integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) was 24.9. Median docking time was 10 min and overall operative time was 129.5 min. All patients, except one with acute coronary syndrome, had an uneventful peri-operative course and were discharged on post-operative day 2. The Hugo™ RAS system is well designed for robotic Heller myotomy. The operative and clinical results are similar to the currently used robotic system; however, the modular design of the system has some differences. These translate to better docking angles and maneuverability as well as console surgeon's ergonomics. Further experience is needed to explore the advantages of the system's modular design and function.

Natural history of symptoms and prognostic information of the rapid drink challenge and solid bolus swallows in esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction defined by manometry.

Esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO) is a condition characterized by poor relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which can manifest as dysphagia and chest pain. The best treatment of EGJOO is unknown as some patients improve without any specific therapy, whereas some patients undergo invasive therapy. Currently, prognostic factors are lacking. We aimed to assess the long-term prognosis and predictors of dysphagia and chest pain by the rapid drink challenge and solid bolus swallows in EGJOO. We retrospectively assessed high-resolution esophageal manometries (HRM) performed at our center between 2015 and 2018. The patients completed a dysphagia and chest pain questionnaire a median of 34 months after the HRM/baseline assessment, including the Impaction dysphagia questionnaire-10 (IDQ-10) complemented with questions regarding chest pain and esophageal treatments. Symptoms were compared with HRM findings. In all, 980 HRMs were analyzed and 66 (6.5%) were identified as having HRM findings compatible with EGJOO. Of these, 27 patients with EGJOO (41%) completed the follow-up questionnaires and had no exclusion criteria, and 70% of these patients had dysphagia and 44% chest pain at least once a week. Dysphagia at follow-up was more common in patients with elevated integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) on all three HRM metrics (water swallows, solid bolus swallows, and rapid drink challenge) (p = 0.03, odds ratio: 8.4 (95% CI: 1.2-56.0)), but this was not seen for chest pain (p = 0.45). Abnormal motility patterns on rapid drink challenge or solid bolus swallows were not associated with dysphagia or chest pain at follow-up. Having a high IRP on three HRM metrics-water swallows, solid bolus swallows, and rapid drink challenge-is associated with a worse prognosis in patients with EGJOO and could potentially be used to select candidates suitable for invasive procedures.

Threshold level of Peptest in diagnosing gastroesophageal reflux disease with extraesophageal symptoms: Evidence from Vietnam.

We aimed to evaluate the application of Peptest, a novel technique to detect pepsin in the saliva, and identify its threshold level for the diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) with extraesophageal symptoms. A cross-sectional study was conducted in two groups: patients with extraesophageal GERD symptoms (symptomatic group divided into GERD and non-GERD groups according to 24-h esophageal pH-impedance monitoring [pH-I] results) and healthy controls. For the symptomatic group, endoscopy, pH 24 h, high-resolution manometry (HRM), and salivary Peptest were performed. For the healthy control group, only Peptest was done. The accuracy of Peptest was compared with that of pH-I by the Lyon consensus criteria. Chronic laryngitis was the most frequent extraesophageal symptom. On saliva testing, the GERD group had a higher prevalence of positive samples and pepsin concentration than the control group. Between GERD and non-GERD groups, the optimal threshold level was 31.2 ng/mL, with a sensitivity of 86.7% and specificity of 27.5%. The optimal threshold level was 31.4 ng/mL to differentiate GERD from healthy controls, with a sensitivity of 86.7% and specificity of 66.0%. Age, number of total refluxes, DeMeester score, post-reflux swallow-induced peristaltic wave (PSPW) index, and mean nocturnal baseline impedence (MNBI) were associated with pepsin concentration. Regarding HRM metrics, there was no significant difference of pepsin concentration between low/normal upper esophageal sphincter (UES) resting pressure, low/normal lower esophageal sphincter (LES) resting pressure, low/normal 4-s integrated relaxation pressure (IRP4s), and hypomotility/normal motility. Patients with extraesophageal symptoms had a higher prevalence of positive Peptest. The optimum threshold level of 31.4 ng/mL had high sensitivity and moderate specificity to differentiate between patients with GERD and healthy controls.

OGBN P18 Surgical Intervention in Patient with Oesophageal Absent Contractility

Abstract Background Absent contractility (AC) is a major motility disorder with poor prognosis. Surgical management for associated comorbidities of AC are often challenging such as in GORD patients where antireflux surgery may be contraindicated or undiagnosed achalasia manifesting with normotensive integrated relaxation pressure would be deprived of surgical myotomy. Thus, it’s crucial to explore potential surgical interventions for patients with AC from both ends of the spectrum. This study will investigate the two extremes of AC and seek to determine suitable strategies for patient selection and offer insights into the management of AC through surgical intervention. Methods This is a retrospective study of patients undergone high-resolution manometry (HRM) between January 2022 to June 2023 and were diagnosed with AC based on ten 5ml water swallows. Patients were followed-up with provocative multiple water swallowing (MWS) and solid bolus swallow (SBS) assessments. Peristalsis invoked by MWS with Distal Contractile Integral (DCI) &amp;gt;100mmHgscm or SBS with DCI &amp;gt;405mmHgscm are adequate peristaltic vigour for consideration of floppy Nissen fundoplication. Patients with absolute AC on provocative stimulation and without peristaltic remnants during the HRM recording underwent oesophageal transit testing in consideration for Heller’s myotomy. Results Total of 115 patients were included (female:male=59:56, mean age 56 years old) with 43 patients (37.4%) demonstrating peristalsis on adjunctive testing (SBS assessment provoking peristalsis was greater by 3.2 folds to MWS [p=0.0004]). In 72 patients with failed adjunctive testing, 6 patients (8.3%) invoked peristalsis (DCI&amp;gt;100mmHgscm) from dry swallows (largest DCI observed: 1000) and 29 patients (40.2%) demonstrated peristaltic remnants (DCI&amp;lt;100mmHgscm). 37 patients (32.2%) had absolute AC with 21/37 patients (56.7%) were diagnosed with achalasia on transit testing (7 patients are still pending tests). AC in 9 patients originate from aetiologies where surgery would not benefit the patients. Conclusions Approximately 37.4% of patients with AC were suitable for floppy Nissen fundoplication, while 32.2% required Heller's myotomy. Surgical intervention was postponed if peristaltic remnants was observed and pending complete diminishment or recovery with prokinetic therapy. Overall, surgical intervention may be considered in nearly 70% of patients with AC.

OGBN P30 Post-operative and symptomatic outcomes following Laparoscopic Hellers Cardiomyotomy- single centre experience

Abstract Background Esophageal achalasia represents a uncommon primary oesophageal motility disorder secondary to loss of inhibitory neurons in the oesophageal myenteric plexus level. The main goal of treating oesophageal achalasia is to relieve dysphagia secondary to the functional obstruction of the distal oesophagus by the inability of the Lower Oesophageal Sphincter (LOS) to relax appropriately after deglutition. The Eckardt score (ES) was developed to objectively assess the symptom severity and continues to be widely used. Aim of this study was to assess the post-operative outcomes and symptomatic improvement using ES in consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopic Hellers cardiomyotomy for achalasia in our unit. Methods Data of consecutive patients who underwent LHCM between January 2016 and December 2021 was collected. Patient demographics, surgical details, perioperative course, ES, and manometric data including Integrated Relaxation Pressure (IRP), were retrieved from a prospectively maintained database. Primary outcomes assessed were peri-operative morbidity assessed using Clavien-Dindo grade. Secondary outcomes assessed were improvement in symptoms using ES (pre- and post-operative). ES of ≤3 was considered as symptomatic improvement. Data was analysed using Microsoft Excel. Comparison of pre-operative and post-operative means was performed using paired t test. Fishers exact test was used for categorical variables. A p-value &amp;lt;0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results 41 patients underwent LHCM. Twenty-one were males. Median age was 56 years (20-77). 95.12% patients had dysphagia for a median duration of 24 months (2-180). Type II achalasia was most common in 87.80%. Median IRP was 22.3 mm Hg (11-78). Oesophageal dilation was performed in 2 while, 10 patients received botulin injection pre-operatively. Median hospital stay was 1 day (1-12). 92.68% had no post operative complications. None of the patients had significant complications (Clavien-Dindo &amp;gt;grade 2). At a median follow-up of 60 months, there was significant improvement in ES 8±1.97 to 1.82±1.16, p&amp;lt;0.001 and dysphagia score (p&amp;lt;0.001). Conclusions LHCM with fundoplication leads to significant symptomatic improvement with excellent short and medium term outcomes with low morbidity and complication rates. A detailed pre-operative discussion with patients is essential to provide tailored treatment as per individual patient symptoms.