Lower Esophageal Sphincter Pressure Research Articles

Should Pre-Transplant Esophageal Dysmotility Preclude Candidacy for Lung Transplantation?

Esophageal dysmotility can decrease luminal clearance and increase the risk of aspiration and GERD and contribute to allograft dysfunction. We sought to determine the impact of pre-transplant esophageal dysmotility on allograft function, GERD, rejection and survival after lung transplantation. From 2012 to 2018, 699 patients underwent lung transplantation at our institution. Gastroesophageal physiological testing included esophageal manomentry, 24 hour pH measurement and gastric emptying tests before and after transplantation. High resolution manometry (HRM) was available in 337 patients including 120 patients with abnormal HRM (20-aperistalsis, 10-Distal Esophageal Spasms, 8-Jackhammer Esophagus and 82-Ineffective Motility). Allograft function was assessed by Forced Expiratory Volume in 1-second (FEV1) over time. Long-term risk of mortality was assessed non-parametrically by Kaplan-Meier method and parametrically by a multiphase hazard model. Pre-transplant esophageal dysmotility was not associated with worse survival after lung transplantation (P= .7). One year overall survival was 95%, 92% and 90% respectively for patients with aperistalsis, dysmotility and normal motility while 5-year OS was 67%, 69% and 65% respectively. On univariate analysis, patients with non-caucasian ethnicity and group B disease were more likely to have dysmotility. On post-transplant pH testing, patients with abnormal motility had greater acid exposure time and higher Demeester scores along with lower residual LES pressure. Abnormal HRM prior to lung transplantation was not significantly associated with biopsy proven acute lung rejection (P= .5) or allograft function (P= .5). Esophageal dysmotility is not associated with poor allograft function or worse post-transplant survival. Favorable outcomes can be achieved with careful selection and post-transplant management. Such patients should not be disqualified solely on the basis of esophageal dysmotility.

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM): a comparative study between Chagasic and idiopathic achalasia.

Background and study aims Achalasia can be classified as either primary (idiopathic) achalasia or secondary achalasia, which is a consequence of another systemic disease. Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is an effective and safe treatment for achalasia. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of POEM in patients with Chagasic achalasia compared to idiopathic achalasia. Patients and methods We evaluated POEM procedures performed at a single institution from November 2016 to January 2018. Demographic data, Eckardt score, lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure, body mass index, post-operative erosive esophagitis, adverse events, length of hospital stay, and procedure-related parameters were analyzed. Results Fifty-one patients underwent POEM as a treatment for achalasia in this period (20 patients with Chagasic and 31 with Idiopathic etiology). The overall clinical success rate was 92.1 %, with no statistical difference between groups (90 % in the Chagasic group vs. 93.5 % in the Idiopathic group, P = 0.640). Both groups had significant reduction in Eckardt score and in LES pressure, and increase in bodey mass index (BMI) at 1-year follow-up. There was no statistical difference between groups regarding Eckardt score ( P = 0.439), LES pressure (p = 0.507), BMI ( P = 0.254), post erosive esophagitis (35 % vs. 38.7 %, P = 0.789), adverse events (30 % vs. 12 %, P = 0.163,) length of hospital stay (3.75 days vs. 3.58 days, P = 0.622), and operative time (101.3 min vs. 99.1 min, P = 0.840). Conclusion POEM is an effective and safe treatment for patients with achalasia. There is no difference in POEM outcomes for those patients with Chagasic or Idiopathic achalasia.

Which drugs are risk factors for the development of gastroesophageal reflux disease?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which is common in many communities, is associated with structural factors, eating habits, and the use of certain drugs. The use of such drugs can lead to the emergence of GERD and can also exacerbate existing reflux symptoms. These drugs can contribute to GERD by directly causing mucosal damage, by reducing lower esophageal sphincter pressure (LESP), or by affecting esophagogastric motility. In this article, we report our investigation of the relationships between GERD and medications within the scope of the "Turkish GERD Consensus Group." For the medication groups for which sufficient data were obtained (Figure 1), a systematic literature review in English was conducted using the keywords "gastroesophageal reflux" [MeSH Terms] and "anti-inflammatory agents, non-steroidal" [MeSH Terms], "gastroesophageal reflux" [MeSH Terms] and "acetylsalicylic acid" [MeSH Terms], "gastroesophageal reflux" [All Fields] and "estrogenic agents" [All Fields], "gastroesophageal reflux" [All Fields] and "progesterones" [All Fields], "gastroesophageal reflux" [All Fields] and "hormone replacement therapy" [All Fields], "gastroesophageal reflux" [MeSH Terms] and "diphosphonates" [MeSH Terms] OR "diphosphonates" [All Fields], "calcium channel blockers" [MeSH Terms] and "gastroesophageal reflux" [MeSH Terms], "gastroesophageal reflux" [MeSH Terms] and "nitrates" [MeSH Terms], "gastroesophageal reflux" [MeSH Terms] and "antidepressive agents" [MeSH Terms], "gastroesophageal reflux" [MeSH Terms] and "benzodiazepines" [MeSH Terms] and "hypnotic drugs" [MeSH Terms], "gastroesophageal reflux" [MeSH Terms] and "cholinergic antagonists" [MeSH Terms], "gastroesophageal reflux" [MeSH Terms] and "theophylline" [MeSH Terms], and "gastroesophageal reflux [MeSH Terms] AND "anti-asthmatic agents" [MeSH Terms]. The studies were analyzed and the results are presented here.

Sleeve Gastrectomy and Anterior Fundoplication (D-SLEEVE) Prevents Gastroesophageal Reflux in Symptomatic GERD

A worrying increase of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and Barrett esophagus has been reported after sleeve gastrectomy (SG). Recent reports on combined fundoplication and SG seem to accomplish initial favorable results. However, no study included manometry or pH monitoring to evaluate the impact of fundoplication in SG on esophageal physiology. In this study, 32 consecutive bariatric patients with GERD and/or esophagitis had high-resolution impedance manometry (HRiM) and combined 24-h pH and multichannel intraluminal impedance (MII-pH) before and after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy associated to anterior fundoplication (D-SLEEVE). The following parameters were calculated at HRiM: lower esophageal sphincter pressure and relaxation, peristalsis, and mean total bolus transit time. The acid and non-acid GER episodes were assessed by MII-pH, symptom index association (SI), and symptom-association probability (SAP) were also analyzed. At a median follow-up of 14months, HRiM showed an increased LES function, and MII-pH showed an excellent control of both acid exposure of the esophagus and number of reflux events. Bariatric outcomes (BMI and EWL%) were also comparable to regular SG (p = NS). D-SLEEVE is an effective restrictive procedure, which recreates a functional LES pressure able to control and/or prevent mild GERD at 1-year follow-up.

Simple Manometric Index for Comprehensive Esophagogastric Junction Barrier Competency Against Gastroesophageal Reflux

The esophagogastric junction (EGJ) is an anatomic and physiologic barrier against gastroesophageal reflux. Comprehensive evaluation of EGJ barrier parameters using high-resolution manometry in patients with GERD has not been well established. We propose a simple index for comprehensive EGJ antireflux competency. Patients who underwent high-resolution manometry and 24-hour pH monitoring between January 2017 and September 2018 were included. Of these, patients with normal esophageal motility were selected. EGJ antireflux competency was assessed based on the following 3categories: anatomic configuration of the EGJ complex (ie EGJ morphology), backflow-preventive pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) (ie LES pressure integral), and backflow-promotive pressure across the LES (ie thoracoabdominal pressure gradient). Each category was scored on a scale of 0 to 2, applying clinically meaningful divisions, and a cumulative score was calculated (EGJ index: 0 to 6 points). DeMeester score > 14.72 indicated GERD. In total, 259 patients met study criteria. Of these, GERD was noted in 109 patients (42.1%). The pH parameters were gradually exacerbated, depending on the EGJ index. Good correlations were seen between EGJ index and previously proposed parameters for EGJ disruption, including LES length, LES pressure, and LES pressure integral (area under the curve > 0.9 [excellent validation]). No patient had GERD if the EGJ index score was 0. However, GERD was seen in as high as 85.7% of patients with the highest score of6. EGJ disruption severity was clearly graded based on a simple scoring method, which can improve evaluation and development of clinical strategies for GERD.

A195 THE CANADIAN POEM EXPERIENCE. THE FIRST 50 PATIENTS

Abstract Background Achalasia is a disorder of esophageal motility characterized by a loss of enteric neurons resulting in impaired relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter and absence of esophageal peristalsis. There are no current treatments that allow for regeneration of the enteric neurons. Interventions focus primarily on lowering the LES pressure to provide symptom relief and improve quality of life. Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has emerged as a less invasive technique for performing myotomy in patients with achalasia. Aims This study aims to assess the safety and efficacy of POEM in a Canadian tertiary care center. Methods All consecutive patients who underwent POEM between March 2016 and May 2018 at a tertiary center were included. The primary outcome of the study was clinical success rate of POEM defined as a post-POEM Eckardt score ≤ 3 at ≥ 3 months. Adverse events were recorded according to the Clavien-Dindo grading system. Results A total of 50 consecutive patients underwent 51 POEM procedures with a mean procedure length of 85.6±29.6 minutes. Post-POEM Eckardt scores of ≤ 3 at ≥ 3 months was achieved in 98% of patients. The incidence of pathologic reflux post-poem was 23%. The median length of hospital stay was 1 day (range 1–2 days). No major adverse events occurred. Conclusions POEM is a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of achalasia. At a median follow up of 19.5 months, 98% of patients had sustained clinical response (Eckardt score ≤ 3). Stages of POEM. a) Injection and mucosal incision, b) submucosal tunneling c) completed tunnel, view from just above the lower esophageal sphincter (main), gastric side (right upper) and esophageal side (right lower) d) myotomy e[i]) completed myotomy f) closure with hemostatic clips. Funding Agencies None

Morphology of the Esophageal Hiatus: Is It Different in 3 Types of Hiatus Hernias?

Background/AimsThe esophageal hiatus is formed by the right crus of the diaphragm in the majority of subjects. Contraction of the hiatus exerts a sphincter-like action on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The aim is to study the hiatal anatomy (using CT scan imaging) and function (using high-resolution manometry [HRM]), and esophageal motor function in patients with sliding and paraesophageal hiatal hernia.MethodsWe assessed normal subjects (n = 20), patients with sliding type 1 hernia (n = 18), paraesophageal type 2 hernia (n = 19), and mixed type 3 hernia (n = 19). Hernia diagnosis was confirmed on the upper gastrointestinal series. The hiatal morphology was constructed from the CT scan images. The LES pressure and relaxation, percent peristalsis, bolus pressure, and hiatal squeeze pressure were assessed by HRM.ResultsThe CT images revealed that the esophageal hiatus is formed by the right crus of the diaphragm in all normal subjects and 86% of hernia patients. The hiatus is elliptical in shape with a surface area of 1037 mm2 in normal subjects. The hiatal dimensions were larger in patients compared to normal subjects. The HRM revealed impaired LES relaxation and higher bolus pressure in patients with paraesophageal compared to the sliding hernia. The hiatal pinch on HRM was recognized in significantly higher number of patients with sliding as compared to paraesophageal hernia.ConclusionsUsing a novel approach, we provide details of the esophageal hiatus in patients with various kinds of hiatal hernia. Impaired LES relaxation in paraesophageal hernia may play a role in its pathophysiology and genesis of symptoms.

Clinical Symptom Presentation of Hypercontractile Peristalsis in the Era of High-Resolution Manometry: A Single-Center Experience

Background: Hypercontractile motility of the esophagus is occasionally noted on high-resolution manometry (HRM), but its clinical correlations are unclear. We compared symptom severity and clinical presentation of patients with hypercontractile motility of the esophagus. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study. We queried a prospectively maintained database for patients who underwent esophageal function testing from October 1, 2016, to October 30, 2018. We included patients with jackhammer esophagus (JE; ≥2 swallows with distal contractile integral [DCI] ≥8,000 mm Hg∙cm∙s), nutcracker esophagus (NE; mean DCI 5,000–8,000 mm Hg∙cm∙s without meeting JE criteria), or esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction ([EGJOO]: abnormal median integrated relaxation pressure (>15 mm Hg) without meeting achalasia criteria, with JE [EGJOO-h], or normal motility [EGJOO-n]). HRM, endoscopy, barium esophagram, ambulatory pH studies, and symptom questionnaires were reevaluated for further analysis. Clinical parameters were analyzed using Spearman Rho correlation. Categorical variables were assessed with Fisher exact or chi-square test. Results: Altogether, 85 patients met inclusion criteria. They were divided into 4 subgroups: 28 with JE, 18 with NE, 15 with EGJOO-h, and 24 with EGJOO-n. Patients with EGJOO-h were the most symptomatic overall. No correlation was seen between symptoms and mean DCI (p ≥ 0.05 all groups) or number of hypercontractile swallows (≥8,000 mm Hg∙cm∙s, p ≥ 0.05). A significant correlation was noted between dysphagia and lower esophageal sphincter pressure (LESP) and LESP integral (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: The number of hypercontractile swallows and mean DCI were not associated with patient-reported symptoms. Elevated LESP may be a more relevant contributor to dysphagia.

Transient Lower Esophageal Sphincter Relaxations and Mechanical Incompetence of the Lower Esophageal Sphincter – Is There a Relationship?

Introduction: The detailed process of a gastroesophageal reflux event is still under controversial discussion. Gastroenterologists have developed and favor the concept of Transient Lower esophageal Sphincter Relaxations (TLESR`s) as the major cause of gastroesophageal reflux episodes. TLESR`s are related with reflux episodes both in healthy individuals and patients with GERD. Another concept around the functional mechanism of the antirefluxbarrier is a more mechanical interpretation of the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES), developed by surgeons. The aim of this study is to investigate this relationship between TLESR`s and the mechanical failure of the LES by investigating these criteria in the same individuals. Methods: In a referral center for esophageal and gastric functional disease at the University Hospital in Würzburg, Germany, we investigated healthy volunteers and patients with proven GERD. The assessment of the LES consisted of the overall length, the intraabdominal length, and the end-expiratory pressure of the LES. The manometry was performed in a station-to-station-pull-through technique. The changing LES pressure and the TLESRs were measured with a sleeve catheter according to the protocol published by Dent and Schoeman. The presence of pathologic reflux in patients was evaluated by 24h pH monitoring. Results: In total, 8 healthy volunteers were investigated (median age: 26 years (22-34)). In addition, 21 patients with GERD were evaluated (median age: 49 years (25-68)). The frequency of TLESR´s was quite low in volunteers and patients with 0,4 TLESR`s/h and 0,6 TLESR`s/h respectively. While the frequency of TLESR`s was not different between volunteers and GERD-patients, the percentage of reflux-associated TLESR`s was significantly higher in GERD-patients with mechanically incompetent LES (20,8%), compared to the percentage in GERD-patients with intact LES (6,8%) and also compared to the percentage in healthy volunteers (7,8%) (p<0,001). Conclusion: The present analysis shows a relationship between a mechanically incompetent LES and an increased number of reflux-associated TLESR`s, suggesting that the two mechanisms are not mutually exclusive, but may be instead different measurements of the same condition - a functionally and mechanically defective LES.

High-resolution manometry in the diagnosis of diffuse esophageal spasm: A rare motility disorder

Background: Diffuse esophageal spasm (DOS) is a rare motility disorder. High-resolution manometry (HRM) is used for the diagnosis of DOS in patients confirmed with non-cardiac chest pain and/or dysphagia. The body of the esophagus and the lower esophageal sphincter (LOS) exhibit various motility characteristics that are typical to DOS. The study was conducted to study the HRM patterns in DOS using a 16-channel water perfusion high-resolution esophageal manometer. Aims and Objectives: The objective of the study was to analyze the various motility patterns in DOS with the help of HRM and also to look for those patients who, at the time of the HRM recording, did not reveal overt patterns of motility that is typical to DOS. Materials and Methods: HRM was performed in 13 adult patients (mean age = 61 years) referred as cases of DOS, out of which three had HRM features of DOS. All patients were subjected to HRM following which the results were analyzed. Results: Ten cases had essentially normal HRM findings. The other three patients had a high basal LOS pressure (BLOSP) and elevated distal wave amplitudes. However, all three cases had a normal LOS relaxation pattern. Manometric features of DOS may not be obvious in all referred cases of DOS, and hence, false-negative results are likely. DOS often has high BLOSP along with very high distal wave amplitudes. However, the LOS relaxation during swallows does not get affected. Although the mean age for DOS is 71 years, yet it can also occur in younger adults. Conclusion: Most of the DOS patients may not manifest manometrically at the time when they are actually undergoing the recording, which leaves a number of cases with a normal HRM finding. Thus, it would not be reasonable to rule out DOS in the absence of HRM confirmation.

High-resolution esophageal manometry in systemic sclerosis in the indian population: An observational study

Background: Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare multisystemic autoimmune disorder in which the esophagus is the second most common organ to be affected after the skin, leading to dysmotility. Literature available on esophageal dysmotility in SSc is limited. Moreover, studies explaining the spectrum of esophageal dysmotility in the disease in the Indian population are sparse. Aim: The aim of this study was to characterize esophageal motility disorders in SSc using esophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM) in a representative of the Southwestern Indian population. Methods: Thirty-two SSc patients participated in the study. All of them met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and underwent esophageal HRM at the Gastrointestinal Physiology Laboratory, Department of Physiology, of our center. The findings were interpreted using the Chicago Classification v3.0 criteria. Results: Among patients of SSc with a mean age of 42.25 ± 10.45 years, 19 (59.38%) had “absent contractility (AC),” 3 (9.38%) had “ineffective esophageal motility (IEM),” 3 (9.38%) had “type I achalasia, 1 (3.13%) had “esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction,” and 6 (18.75%) had “normal” HRM findings. The HRM parameter of “basal lower esophageal sphincter pressure” differed significantly between “IEM type I achalasia” (P = 0.043) and “type I achalasia AC” groups (P = 0.032), while “median integral relaxation pressure” of “type I achalasia” groups showed significant difference with “normal, IEM, and AC” groups each (P Conclusions: The findings of the study suggest that varying degrees of esophageal motility disorders are present in SSc using HRM as defined by the Chicago Classification v3.0. Majority (59.38%) of patients had AC, but the rest of them showed other dysmotility patterns.

Poem Versus Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy in the Treatment of Esophageal Achalasia: A Case-Control Study from Two High Volume Centers Using the Propensity Score

BackgroundPOEM has recently had a widespread diffusion, aiming at being the treatment of choice for esophageal achalasia. The results of ongoing RCTs against laparoscopic myotomy are not available, yet. We, therefore, designed this propensity score (PS) case-control study with the aim of evaluating how POEM compares to the long-standing laparoscopic Heller myotomy + Dor fundoplication (LHD) and verifying if it may really replace the latter as the first-line treatment for achalasia. MethodsTwo groups of consecutive patients undergoing treatment for primary achalasia from January 2014 to November 2017 were recruited in two high-volume centers, one with extensive experience with POEM and one with LHD. Patients with previous endoscopic treatment were included, whereas patients with previous LHD or POEM were excluded. A total of 140 patients in both centers were thus matched. LHD and POEM were performed following established techniques. The patients were followed with clinical (Eckardt score), endoscopic, and pH-manometry evaluations. ResultsThe procedure was successfully completed in all the patients. POEM required a shorter operation time and postoperative stay compared to LHD (p < 0.001). No mortality was recorded in either group. Seven complications were recorded in the POEM group (five mucosal perforations) and 3 in the LHD group (3 mucosal perforations)(p = 0.33). Two patients in the POEM group and one in the LHD were lost to follow-up. One patient in both groups died during the follow-up for unrelated causes. At a median follow-up of 24 months [15–30] for POEM and 31 months [15–41] for LHD (p < 0.05), 99.3% of the POEM patients and 97.7% of the LHD patients showed an Eckardt score ≤ 3 (p < 0.12). Four years after the treatment, the probability to have symptoms adequately controlled was > 90% for both groups (p = 0.2, Log-rank test). HR-Manometry showed a similar reduction in the LES pressure and 4sIRP; 24-h pH-monitoring showed however an abnormal exposure to acid in 38.4% of POEM patients, as compared to 17.1% of LHD patients (p < 0.01) and esophagitis was found in 37.4% of the POEM and 15.2% of LHD patients (p < 0.05). ConclusionPOEM provides the same midterm results as LHD. This study confirms, however, a higher incidence of postoperative GERD with the former, even if its real significance needs to be further evaluated.

The relationship between acid reflux and esophageal motility, esophagitis and cardiac morphology in gastroesophageal reflux disease

Objective: To analyze the relationship between the severity of esophageal acid reflux and esophageal motility, esophageal mucosal injury and morphological anatomy of gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Methods: The clinicaldata of GERD patients who underwent 24 h pH-impedance monitoring, gastroscopy and high-resolution manometry (HRM) from January 2016 to January 2019 in the Gastroesophageal Surgery Department of PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into non-pathological acid reflux group, mild pathological acid reflux group and moderate to severe pathological acid reflux group according to the DeMeester score. The gender and age of each group were matched, with 60 cases in each group. Statistical analysiswas performed to analyze thedifferences in upper esophageal sphincter pressure, lower esophageal sphincter pressure (LES), LES length, length of ventral LES, percentage of ineffective swallowing, esophagitis, Hill grade of GEJ, and hiatus hernia (HH) in each group. The comparison and correlation analysis are also carried out between the groups. Results: The male-female ratio was 33/27, and the age was (57±13) years in each group. Non-parametric analysis showed that the LES pressure and the length of the ventral LES decreased with the severity of acid reflux, and there was a statistical difference (P= 0.033, P=0.015). The detection rate of HH by HRM increased significantly (χ(2)=0.001) as well. Esophagitis score increased with the severity of acid reflux and there was statistical difference (P<0.001).The detection rate of esophagitis increased significantly (χ(2)<0.001) as well. Hill grading score of GEJ increased with the severity of acid reflux, and there was statistical difference (P<0.001).The detection rate of HH by endoscopy increased significantly (χ(2)<0.001) as well. The correlation between DeMeester score and LES pressure, length of ventral LES, percentage of ineffective swallowing, esophagitis score, and Hill grade score were statistically significant (P<0.05). Conclusions: The esophageal low motility (such as low LES pressure) and anatomical abnormalities (abdominal esophageal shortening, GEJ flabbiness, and even HH formation) of the GEJ regionare significantly associated with the severity of acid reflux. These factors may be important causes of increased acid reflux. In addition, the aggravation of acid reflux can also increase the incidence and severity of esophagitis.

O17 A PROPENSITY SCORE-MATCHED CASE-CONTROL STUDY TO COMPARE POEM AND LAPAROSCOPIC HELLER MYOTOMY IN THE TREATMENT OF ESOPHAGEAL ACHALASIA

Abstract Background We designed this study with the aim of comparing POEM and laparoscopic Heller myotomy+Dor fundoplication (LHD) by matching 2 groups of consecutive patients, treated in 2 high-volume Centers, with the propensity score (PS). Methods Patients undergoing treatment for achalasia from 2014 to 2017 were selected: by applying the PS, 140 patients in both centers were matched. LHD and POEM were performed following established techniques. Patients were followed with clinical, endoscopic and pH-manometry evaluations. Results POEM required a shorter operation time (47 min [35-57]) and postoperative stay (2 days [2-2]) compared to LHD (95 min [85-105] and 3 days [3-3], respectively, p&lt;0.001). No mortality was recorded in either group. Seven complications were recorded in the POEM group (5 mucosal perforations) and 3 in the LHD group (3 mucosal perforations)(p=0.33). At a median follow up of 24 mos. [15-30] for POEM and 31 mos. [15-41] for LHD (p&lt;0.05), the median Eckardt score did not differ: moreover, 99.3% of the POEM patients and 97.7% of the LHD patients showed an Eckardt score ≤ 3 (p &lt;0.12). Four years after the treatment, the probability to be symptom free was &gt; 90% for both groups (98.2% for POEM and 93.9% for LHD, p=0.2, Log-rank test). HR-Manometry showed a similar reduction in the LES pressure and 4sIRP; however, 24-h pH-monitoring showed an abnormal exposure to acid in 38.4% of POEM patients, as compared to 17.1% of LHD patients (p&lt;0.01) and esophagitis was found in 37.4% of the POEM and 15.2% of LHD patients (p&lt;0.05). Finally, the need for PPI therapy was higher in the POEM group (38.8%) compared to the LHD group (15.1%), p&lt;0.001.

Clinical value of repeated peroral endoscopic myotomy for persistent/recurrent achalasia

Objective To evaluate the feasibility, safety and efficacy of repeated peroral endoscopic myotomy (Re-POEM) as a make-up therapy after POEM failure. Methods Thirty-three patients with persistent/recurrent symptoms after first POEM (Eckardt symptom score≥4) were selected from a database of a total of 2 516 consecutive patients with achalasia. The main outcome measures was Eckardt score during follow-up; the secondary outcome measures were procedure-related adverse events, changes in manometric lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure, and reflux symptoms before and after Re-POEM. Results All patients successfully underwent Re-POEM in mean 18.6 months (ranging 3-55 months) after their first POEM procedures. The mean symptom score before Re-POEM was 5.5 (ranging 4-8). Mean operation time was 45.1 minutes (ranging 28-64 minutes). Submucosal tunnel infection occurred in 1 patient who recovered with conservative treatment. During a mean follow-up period of 36.6 months (ranging 12-58 months), symptom relief was achieved in all patients. Eckardt score reduced to 1.3 (ranging 0-3), significantly different from that before (P<0.001). Mean LES pressure also declined from 26.0 mmHg (1 mmHg=0.133 kPa) to 9.6 mmHg after Re-POEM (P<0.001). The incidence of gastroesophageal reflux of Re-POEM was 33.3% (11/33). Conclusions Re-POEM appears safe and effective as a make-up option after POEM failure. Key words: Esophageal achalasia; Peroral endoscopic myotomy; Repeated peroral endoscopic myotomy

Acute administration of fructans increases the number of transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations in healthy volunteers.

Dietary measures are often advised to patients with gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD). Fermentable Oligo-, Di-, Mono-saccharides and Polyols (FODMAPs) induce lower gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. However, their effects on esophageal motility, including transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations (TLESRs), reflux events and GERD symptoms are unknown. We investigated the effect of acute administration oftwo FODMAPs, fructose, and fructans, on the number of TLESRs, reflux episodes and symptom perception in healthy volunteers (HVs). After an overnight fast, 20 HVs (10 males; 32.6±2.8years) underwent a high-resolution impedance manometry. The number of TLESRs and reflux episodes was quantified during five hours after consumption of a high-caloric meal (740kcal) enriched with 40g of either fructose, fructans or glucose (as placebo). Results were analyzed using mixed models. There was a trend for a change in the number of TLESRs between the three conditions (P=.06). Post hoc analysis revealed a trend toward a higher number of TLESRs in the fructan condition compared with placebo (Pcorr =.06). Acute administration of fructose did not influence the number of TLESRs. The total number of reflux events was not affected by either FODMAP condition. Lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressures dropped significantly in the first postprandial hour to recover slowly back to baseline values (P<.0001), without any difference in LES pressure between the three conditions. Ingestion of fructans increased the number of TLESRs slightly compared with placebo. The effect of FODMAPs such as fructans or a low FODMAP diet on reflux parameters in GERD patients remains to be investigated.

Analysis of clinical features and motility characteristics of ineffective esophageal motility

Objective To clarify the correlation between the clinical characteristics, esophageal motility features and esophageal acid exposure in patients with ineffective esophageal motility (IEM). Methods From January 2016 to March 2018, at Peking University First Hospital, 22 IEM patients diagnosed by esophagus high-resolution manometry (HRM) and 24 individuals with normal HRM results were enrolled. Clinical features, parameters of esophageal HRM and results of esophageal 24-hour pH monitoring of IEM patients and the individuals with normal HRM results were compared. According to the median distal contraction integral (DCI) of ten swallows, the IEM patients were divided into mild-IEM group (DCI 250-450 mmHg·s·cm (1 mmHg=0.133 kPa)) (14 cases) and severe-IEM group (DCI<250 mmHg·s·cm) (eight cases). The clinical features and esophageal motility were compared between normal HRM group, mild-IEM group and severe-IEM group. T test, chi-square test and one-way analysis of various were used for statistical analysis. Results The age of IEM group was older than that of normal HRM group ((64.5±11.2) years vs. (50.3±18.2) years), and the difference was statistically significant (t=-3.135, P=0.003). The lower esophageal sphincter pressure (LESP) of IEM group was lower than that of normal HRM group ((17.0±6.8) mmHg vs. (22.3±7.2) mmHg), and the difference was statistically significant (t=2.516, P=0.016). There were 15 cases in normal HRM group and 14 patients in IEM group who underwent esophageal 24-hour pH monitoring and there were five and two patients with abnormal acid exposure time (AET) in normal HRM group and IEM group, respectively. The length of proximal esophageal body (PEB) pressure zone of severe-IEM group was shorter than those of normal HRM group and mild-IEM group ((2.8±1.5) cm vs.(4.2±0.7) cm and (4.6±0.9) cm), and the differences were statistically significant (t=2.397 and 3.432, P=0.044 and 0.003). The integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) and LESP of normal HRM group were both higher than those of mild-IEM group ((9.3±2.9) mmHg vs. (7.2±3.3) mmHg, (22.3±7.2) mmHg vs. (15.4±7.1) mmHg), and the differences were statistically significant (t=2.148 and 2.843, P=0.038 and 0.007). There were six and eight patients in mild-IEM group and severe-IEM group who underwent esophageal 24-hour pH monitoring, respectively, and two patients in mild-IEM had abnormal AET. Conclusions The LESP of IEM patients is low. The clinical features and AET of IEM patients are not associated with the severity of IEM. In patients with severe IEM, the proximal and distal esophageal contractility is weakened, and the length of PEB pressure zone is shortened. Key words: Esophageal sphincter, upper; Ineffective esophageal motility; High-resolution manometry; Proximal esophageal body

Per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) for a sigmoid type of achalasia: short-term outcomes and changes in the esophageal angle.

Per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is an endoscopic procedure whereby the esophageal muscle is incised in order to lower the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure. Since the time it was first performed in 2008 and subsequently reported on in 2010 by Inoue et al., POEM has been shown to be safe and effective for straight type of achalasia. On the other hand, the efficacy of POEM had been controversial for patients with achalasia of the sigmoid type, in which a high LES pressure is accompanied by morphological changes, including dilation, acute angulation, and rotation. The aim of this study is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of POEM in patients with sigmoid type of achalasia. Between May 2015 and December 2017, 16 patients with a sigmoid type of achalasia underwent POEM in our institute. The POEM procedure was the same as that for the straight type of achalasia. The double-scope technique was used to check the distal end of the submucosal tunnel from the gastric side. The primary endpoint was improvement of Eckardt score at 2months after POEM. The secondary endpoints comprised operating time, change in the esophageal angulation, and adverse events. All patients underwent POEM without severe adverse events. The respective parameters before and after POEM significantly differed in terms of mean (SD) Eckardt score [4.9 (2.0) vs. 0.4 (0.6), p < 0.01], LES pressure [19.4 (10.2) vs. 9.2 (6.4), p < 0.01], and integrated relaxation pressure [17.6 (9.2) vs. 7.9 (5.5), p < 0.01]. The average operation time was 94.7 ± 31.4min. The average esophageal angulation was 88.4° ± 23.1° before POEM and 109.5° ± 16.7° after POEM (p < 0.01). Four patients had postoperative complications that were treated conservatively. POEM can improve both LES pressure and esophageal angulation in patients with sigmoid achalasia.

Botox injection into the lower esophageal sphincter induces hiatal paralysis and gastroesophageal reflux.

Endoscopic intrasphincteric injection of Botox (ISIB) is used routinely for the treatment of achalasia esophagus and other spastic motor disorders. Studies show that the ISIB reduces the smooth muscle lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure. The esophageal hiatus, formed by the right crus of diaphragm, surrounds the cranial half of the LES and works like an external LES. We studied the effects of ISIB on the LES and hiatal contraction and gastroesophageal reflux (GER). Fourteen patients treated with ISIB were studied. Esophageal manometry-impedance recordings were performed before and after the ISIB. Hiatal contraction was assessed during tidal inspiration, forced inspiration, Müller's maneuver, and straight leg raise. In 6 subjects, the manometry were repeated 6-12 mo after the ISIB. The esophagogastric junction (EGJ) pressure was measured at end expiration (LES pressure) and at the peak of maneuvers (hiatal contraction). Transdiaphragmatic pressure (pdi; force of diaphragmatic contraction) was measured at the peak of forced inspiration. GER was measured from the impedance recordings. The EGJ pressure at end expiration (LES pressure) decreased significantly after the Botox injection. The peak EGJ pressure at tidal inspiration, forced inspiration, Müller's maneuver, and straight leg raise was also dramatically reduced by the ISIB. There was no effect of Botox on the pdi during forced inspiration. Seven of 10 subjects demonstrated GER during maneuvers following the ISIB. Six to 12 mo after ISIB, the LES and hiatal contraction pressure returned to the pre-ISIB levels. ISIB, in addition to decreasing LES pressure, paralyzes the esophageal hiatus (crural diaphragm) and induces GER.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The sphincter mechanism at the lower end of the esophagus comprises smooth muscle lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and skeletal muscle crural diaphragm (hiatus). Current thinking is that the endoscopic intrasphincteric injection of Botox (ISIB), used routinely for the treatment of achalasia esophagus, reduces LES pressure. Our study shows that ISIB, even though injected into the LES, diffuses into the hiatus and causes its paralysis. These findings emphasize the importance of esophageal hiatus as an important component of the antireflux barrier and that the ISIB is refluxogenic.

451 Lower Basal Esophagogastric Junction Pressures Associated With Regurgitation Severity

INTRODUCTION: It is thought that regurgitation is brought on by changes in esophageal pressure ultimately causing a transient relaxation in the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) with resultant regurgitation. However, it is unknown if the severity of regurgitation symptoms experienced by a patient are related to the basal LES pressure. Our hypothesis is that patients with more severe regurgitation symptoms have lower basal LES pressures. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was completed on all patients referred to our tertiary care hospital for esophageal manometry testing with impedance in 2016. Basal LES pressure (as measured on manometry), regurgitation severity (as reported on pre-manometry patient questionnaire), age, and sex were recorded for each patient. Only patients who reported both regurgitation symptoms and specified severity were included in the final analyses. Mean LES pressures were compared between regurgitation severities and P-values were calculated for all pairwise comparisons. RESULTS: Of the 354 patients referred for manometry, 167 patients (41 males, mean age 54.6; 126 females, mean age 55.6) endorsed regurgitation. Of those 167 patients, 62 reported their symptoms as “mild”, 61 as “moderate”, 29 as “severe”, and 15 as “very severe”. The average LES pressure was 33.22 mmHg for those with mild regurgitation, 27.98 for moderate, 23.94 for severe, and 19.02 for very severe (P = 0.03). There was also a statistically significant difference in LES pressures between mild and severe regurgitation (P=0.03) and mild and very severe regurgitation (P = 0.01). CONCLUSION: Overall, it is known that transient relaxations in LES pressure lead to regurgitation. However, we aimed to assess if there is a difference in basal LES pressures amongst patients who experience regurgitation symptoms, as perhaps a lower basal pressure makes a patient more prone to experiencing more severe regurgitation. There was a statistically significant difference in basal LES pressures amongst patients with varying severities of regurgitation. Future studies should look at pH testing to note if there is an actual increase in proximal acid exposure in patients with lower basal LES pressures and more severe regurgitation.