Mean Lower Esophageal Sphincter Pressure Research Articles

Manometric profile of patients presented with dysphagia – A hospital-based descriptive study

Objectives: The prevalence of dysphagia is 16–22%. Achalasia is characterised by impaired relaxation of the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) and absent oesophageal peristalsis. Minimally invasive procedures, endoscopic pneumatic balloon dilatation (PD) and peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) are treatments of choice. We aimed to assess the manometric profile of patients presented with dysphagia and pre- and post-LES pressure and integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) of patients who underwent PD and POEM. Materials and Methods: One hundred and twenty-nine patients presented with dysphagia underwent high resolution oesophageal manometry (HREM). Manometric parameters: IRP, LES and pattern of motility were noted. According to Chicago classification 4.0, those who are diagnosed with achalasia underwent PD (17) and POEM (15). Statistical analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 28. Pre- and post-procedure values (IRP and basal LES) were compared using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Results: Out of 129 patients with dysphagia, 57 had increased IRP and 75 had simultaneous motility. The mean LES pressure and IRP were found to be 28 ± 19.82 and 17 ± 14.04 mmHg, respectively. On analysis, of patients who underwent procedures PD (17) and POEM (15), a statistically significant decrease in IRP was observed in patients with post POEM compared to post PD status (P = 0.005 and 0.017, respectively). Reduced basal LES pressure was observed in patients with post-POEM status compared to post-PD status, which was not statistically significant. Conclusion: About 44% of patients presented with dysphagia were diagnosed with achalasia cardia. POEM procedure was found to be more effective compared to pneumatic dilatation.

Laparoscopic Heller myotomy versus peroral endoscopic myotomy in children with esophageal achalasia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Currently, laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) and peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) are the best treatment modalities for esophageal achalasia in children. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to compare the efficacy of LHM and POEM. A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed/Medline, Google Scholar and Web of Science for original articles comparing LHM and POEM. All articles were analyzed with respect to operation duration, length of hospital stay, pre- and postoperative Eckardt score (ES), and pre- and postoperative lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure. A total of 32 articles, reporting on 800 children, were selected and reviewed. Because of missing diagnostic values of ES and LES in the LHM group, the meta-analysis was limited to the POEM results. According to the random-effects model, the mean ES difference between pre- and post-operation was 4.387 (95% confidence interval [CI] 3.799-4.974), significantly different to zero (z=14.64, P<0.001), while the mean LES pressure difference was 3.63 mmHg mmHg (95%CI 2247-3.879), significantly different to zero (z=7.36, P<0.001). Operation duration was 130.15 min (95%CI 62.59-197.71) for the LHM method and 83.64 min (95%CI 55.14-112.14) for POEM. The pooled estimate of length of hospital stay was 3.4 days (95%CI 2.6-4.44) and it was comparable between the 2 methods. POEM has positive outcomes regarding ES and LES pressure pre- and postoperatively, as well as operation duration, while the length of hospitalization was comparable between POEM and LHM. Well-designed studies are warranted to further clarify differences between the 2 methods.

Esophageal Inlet Patch: Association with Barrett's Esophagus.

Esophageal inlet patch (IP) with heterotopic gastric mucosa is an incidental finding on esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). Although IP is thought to be embryologic in nature, IP has been associated with Barrett's esophagus (BE). The aim of this study was to compare prevalence, symptoms, demographic factors, and esophageal testing in patients with IP and BE. We retrospectively analyzed endoscopic findings of EGDs, high-resolution esophageal manometry and esophageal pH impedance studies from January 2010 to January 2021 at a single academic medical center. Patients were grouped by presence or absence of IP and BE. Of 27,498 patients evaluated, 1.3% had endoscopic evidence of IP and 4.9% had BE. Of 362 patients with IP, 17.1% had BE; of 1356 patients with BE, 4.6% had IP. Both IP and BE patients presented primarily with heartburn and/or regurgitation. Patients with BE and/or IP were older and had higher BMI than those without (p < 0.001). Mean lower esophageal sphincter pressure was lower and mean acid exposure time (AET) was higher in patients with IP and/or BE than those without (p < 0.05). Our study reports an IP prevalence of 1.3%, with 17.1% patients having concomitant BE; and a BE prevalence of 4.9%, with 4.6% also having IP. Patients with IP alone presented with similar symptoms to patients with concomitant BE. Esophageal function testing showed that patients with either IP or BE had decreased LES pressures and increased esophageal AET. During endoscopy, patients found to have one of these findings should be carefully examined for the other.

Comparing Patients Diagnosed With Ineffective Esophageal Motility by the Chicago Classification Version 3.0 and Version 4.0 Criteria.

The Chicago Classification version 4.0 (CCv4.0) of ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) is more stringent than the Chicago Classification version 3.0 (CCv3.0) definition. We aimed to compare the clinical and manometric features of patients meeting CCv4.0 IEM criteria (group 1) versus patients meeting CCv3.0 IEM but not CCv4.0 criteria (group 2). We collected retrospective clinical, manometric, endoscopic, and radiographic data on 174 adults diagnosed with IEM from 2011 to 2019. Complete bolus clearance was defined as evidence of exit of the bolus by impedance measurement at all distal recording sites. Barium studies included barium swallow, modified barium swallow, and barium upper gastrointestinal series studies, and collected data from these reports include abnormal motility and delay in the passage of liquid barium or barium tablet. These data along with other clinical and manometric data were analyzed using comparison and correlation tests. All records were reviewed for repeated studies and the stability of the manometric diagnoses. Most demographic and clinical variables were not different between the groups. A lower mean lower esophageal sphincter pressure was correlated with greater percent of ineffective swallows in group 1 (n = 128) (r = -0.2495, P = 0.0050) and not in group 2. In group 1, increased percent of failed contractions on manometry was associated with increased incomplete bolus clearance (r = 0.3689, P = 0.0001). No such association was observed in group 2. A lower median integrated relaxation pressure was correlated with greater percent of ineffective contractions in group 1 (r = -0.1825, P = 0.0407) and not group 2. Symptom of dysphagia was more prevalent (51.6% versus 69.6%, P = 0.0347) in group 2. Dysphagia was not associated with intrabolus pressure, bolus clearance, barium delay, or weak or failed contractions in either group. In the small number of subjects with repeated studies, a CCv4.0 diagnosis appeared more stable over time. CCv4.0 IEM was associated with worse esophageal function indicated by reduced bolus clearance. Most other features studied did not differ. Symptom presentation cannot predict if patients are likely to have IEM by CCv4.0. Dysphagia was not associated with worse motility, suggesting it may not be primarily dependent on bolus transit.

ANATOMIC DAMAGE OF THE LOWER ESOPHAGEAL SPHINCTER AFTER SUBTOTAL GASTRECTOMY.

ABSTRACT - BACKGROUND:Dysfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), gastroesophageal reflux disease, and erosive esophagitis in patients undergoing subtotal gastrectomy are commonly recognized occurrences, but until now the causes remain unclear.AIM: The hypothesis of this study is that subtotal gastrectomy provokes changes on the LES resting pressure and its competence, due to the anatomical damage of it, given that the oblique “Sling” fibers, one of the muscular components of the LES, are transected during this surgical procedure.METHODS: Seven adult mongrel dogs (18-30 kg) were anesthetized and admitted for transection of the proximal stomach. Later, the proximal gastric remnant was closed by a suture. Intraoperatively, slow pull-through LES manometries were performed on each dog, under basal conditions (with the intact stomach), and in the closed proximal gastric remnant. The mean of these measurements is presented, with each dog serving as its control.RESULTS: The mean LES pressure (LESP) measured in the proximal gastric remnant, compared with the LESP in the intact stomach, was decreased in five dogs, increased in one dog, and remained unchanged in other dogs.CONCLUSION: The upper transverse transection of the stomach and closing the stomach remnant by suture provoke changes in the LESP. We suggested that these changes in the LESP are secondary to transecting the oblique “Sling” fibers of the LES, one of its muscular components. The suture and closing of the proximal gastric remnant reanchor these fibers with more, less, or the same tension, whether or not modifying the LESP.

Magnet-assist endoscopic augmentation of the lower esophageal sphincter for treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease: cadaveric and survival studies in a porcine model (with video).

Augmentation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is the primary goal of both surgical and endoscopic therapies for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The feasibility, efficacy, safety, and reversibility of a newly developed endotherapy for GERD using intraluminal magnets referred to as a magnet closure device (MCD) were evaluated. This study involved nine cadaveric and six survival pigs. The MCD consisted of a ring neodymium magnet attached to a 2-0 polypropylene suture and suture anchor. The MCD was deployed onto the esophageal wall at the region of the LES using an endoscopic suturing device. Two to three MCDs were placed on opposing walls to induce closure of the esophageal lumen. LES pressures were measured using high-resolution manometry at the index procedure (baseline and immediately post-MCD placement) and at survival endoscopy. Endoscopic removal of the devices was performed followed by necropsy at week 2. MCDs were successfully deployed in all cadaveric (n = 22) and survival animals (n = 12). In cadavers, 20/22 (91%) sutures were full-thickness with no adjacent organ injury. In survival animals, mean LES pressure increased from 8.4mmHg (baseline) to 32.4mmHg immediately post-procedure (p < 0.01). No clinically significant adverse events occurred. Repeat endoscopy at two weeks showed intact MCDs in 4/6 (67%) animals with significant increase in median LES pressure (n = 4, 24.0mmHg versus 7.4mmHg [baseline], p < 0.05). Endoscopic removal of MCDs was successfully achieved. Endoscopic augmentation of the LES using a new MCD was feasible, safe and reversible with significantly increased LES pressures recorded. Future studies are needed to enhance durability. These preliminary results on a reversible technique are promising and may represent an attractive alternative to endoluminal GERD therapy.

The role of intraoperative endoscopic guidance during laparoscopic repair of esophageal achalasia

Purpose The aim was to assess the advantage of using intraoperative endoscopic guidance during laparoscopic repair of esophageal achalasia. Materials and methods This was a retrospective study conducted at Ain Shams Specialized Hospitals that included 84 patients. A total of 42 patients had Heller cardiomyotomy procedure with dor fundoplication and another 42 patients had the same procedure with intraoperative endoscopic guidance. Results Preoperative symptoms included dysphagia in 80 (95%) patients, regurgitation and vomiting in 60 (71.5%) patients, heartburn in 56 (66%) patients, and postprandial chest pain in 40 (49%) patients. Weight loss occurred in 42 (50%) patients. Overall, 72 (85%) patients had tried 2–3 pneumatic dilation. Mean lower esophageal sphincter pressure preoperatively was 33 and was 13.3 mmHg postoperatively (4.1–28.4). The operative time was 45±20 min in the endoscopic group and was 40±10 in the nonendoscopic guidance. Overall, 5 patients of the nonendoscopic group had perforation and one case of bleeding. Postoperatively, dysphagia was seen in one (2.25%) patient of the endoscopic group and four (9.5%) patients of the nonendoscopic group. Postprandial heart pain was seen in two (4.6%) patients of the endoscopic group and four (9.2%) patients of the nonendoscopic group. Moreover, 2 (4.6%) patients of the endoscopic group and four (9.5%) patients of the nonendoscopic group had postoperative regurgitation. Weight regain was seen in 19 (90%) patients of the endoscopic group and 17 (80%) patients of the patients of nonendoscopic group after 12-month follow-up. Conclusion Heller cardiomyotomy with endoscopic guidance is very important not only as a guide to ensure adequate myotomy but also to limit the extent of the myotomy, thereby minimizing the postoperative reflux symptoms.

Sa1234 A THOUSAND AND A HUNDRED FORTY PERORAL ENDOSCOPIC MYOTOMY FOR ESOPHAGEAL ACHALASIA: 10 YEARS’EXPERIENCE FROM A SINGLE TERTIARY CENTER

Esophageal achalasia is most commonly treated with endoscopic dilation or laparoscopic Heller myotomy. Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has recently been described as a novel treatment for achalasia in humans. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical effectiveness and safety of POEM for treating esophageal achalasia performed in a single tertiary center within 10 years. Between June 2010 to May 2019, POEM was performed in 1140 consecutive patients with achalasia. POEM procedure consisted of the following step: firstly, submucosal tunnel was created and extended below the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) onto the gastric cardia after a mucosal incision was made; then endoscopic myotomy of circular muscle bundles was done; finally, the mucosal entry was closed by hemostatic clips. The Eckardt score and manometry were used to evaluate the outcomes. POEM was successfully performed in 1115 of 1140 cases (97.8%). Mean procedure time was 47.1 min (range 33-86) and mean myotomy length was 9.5 cm (range 7-16). Mucosal perforations occurred in 23 (2%) patients during submucosal tunnel creation, major bleeding occurred in 15 (1.3%) patients, and 29 (2.5%) patients suffered pneumothorax immediate after procedure. All the complications were managed conservatively. During a mean follow-up period of 49.3 months (range 5-89 months), treatment success was achieved in 1005/1140 patients (88.2%). Mean LES pressure was 57.5 mmHg (29.2-83.1) and 15.6 mmHg (5.2-23.1) before and after the procedure (P = 0.000), respectively. Mean Eckardt score was 6.1 (4-11, median 6) and 0.6 (0-3, median 1) before and after POEM, respectively (P = 0.000). In a multivariate analysis, no independent predictors of treatment success was found. 215 patient (18.9%) developed mild reflux symptoms and required intermittent medication with proton pump inhibitors during the follow-up. Our study demonstrated that POEM is a safe, and effective treatment for achalasia during a long-term follow-up. Further studies are warranted to compare the clinical outcomes of POEM with other treatment modalities.

Sa1262 A LARGE SINGLE-CENTER STUDY ON THE CLINICAL OUTCOMES OF PER-ORAL ENDOSCOPIC MYOTOMY FOR SIGMOID TYPE 2 ACHALASIA

Per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has been recognized as a safe and effective minimally-invasive endoscopic treatment for achalasia. Good clinical outcomes have been reported on the application of POEM in straight type achalasia. On the other hand, results of POEM in sigmoid type achalasia, especially sigmoid type 2, are limited. This study aims to report the clinical outcomes of POEM for sigmoid type 2 achalasia. A single-center retrospective study was conducted. A prospectively collected database of 2000 patients who underwent POEM in Showa University between September 2008 to June 2019 has been reviewed. Patients who were diagnosed as sigmoid type 2 achalasia and underwent POEM were included in this study. Sigmoid type 2 achalasia was defined as an enormously dilated and tortuous esophagus in barium esophagram and double esophageal lumen in some CT slices. The primary outcome was the success rate, defined as an Eckardt Symptom Score(ESS) of less than 3 without additional treatments such as balloon dilation or redo POEM. The secondary outcomes were integrated relaxation pressure(IRP), mean lower esophageal sphincter(LES) pressure, and GERD after POEM. Patient’s characteristics: A total of 108 patients (age: 58.4±14.7 y/o, 51 females(47%), BMI: 21.7±4.6kg/m2) were included. Based on Chicago Classification, the type of achalasia seen were as follows: Type I/II/III= 28/8/1, and there were 71 unidentified cases due to the difficulty of inserting catheters. Diameter of esophagus was 48.1±17.5mm. Duration of symptoms was 17.4(7.7-29)years. ESS was 5(3-7). As pre-treatment, 49 patients had balloon dilation, Hellor-Dor in 8 patients, and Heller myotomy in 2 patients. Procedure-related parameters: Operation time was 95.9±32.1min. Myotomy length was 7(5-9)cm at the esophageal side, and 3(2-3)cm at the gastric side. Post-operative hospital stay was 4(4-5) days. The following complications were noted: mucosal perforation in 3 patients, submucosal hematoma or bleeding in 3 patients. Treatment outcomes: Success rate after 2 months was 89.1%(82/92). Pre- and 2-months post-POEM ESS were 5.0±2.5 and 1.1±1.0 (p<0.0001), respectively. Pre- and 2-months post-POEM IRP were 15.7±9.9 and 8.6±5.5 mmHg (p=0.0012), respectively. Pre- and 2-months post-POEM mean LES pressure were 19.9±13.9 and 14.6±7.7 mmHg (p=0.066), respectively. GERD 2-months post-POEM were as follows: Grade(N/A/B/C/D=37/29/13/7/1). Patients with GERD symptoms were 11.3%(10/88). PPI usage rate was 16.1%(13/81). Success rate after 1 year was 87.8%(43/49). Since good results of the short- and mid-term success rate and significant improvement of ESS and IRP value were achieved, POEM shows to be an effective procedure for sigmoid type 2 achalasia. Long-term results are expected in future studies.CT slice showing double esophageal lumenView Large Image Figure ViewerDownload Hi-res image Download (PPT)

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

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.

Detecting intraoperative gastric regurgitation by using preattached esophageal multichannel intraluminal impedance and pH monitoring on a solid-state manometry: a case series study.

Adequate barrier pressure (BrP), calculated by subtracting intragastric pressure (IGP) from lower esophageal sphincter pressure (LESP), is believed to prevent gastroesophageal regurgitation (GER). However, the occurrence of intraoperative GER, the height and acidity it reached, have rarely been demonstrated simultaneously along with BrP. In this study, we developed preattached multichannel intraluminal impedance monitoring combined with pH-metry (the gold standard for detecting both height and acidity) on a solid-state manometry to continuously detect intraoperative GER as well as BrP changes. We used this system to record LESP, IGP, and changes in impedance through multichannel sensors and pH in patients receiving elective gynecological laparoscopy with laparoscopic pneumoperitoneum and Trendelenburg (LPT) positioning. Changes in BrP were analyzed at three time points (T1: before LPT; T2: during LPT when LESP reached its peak; and T3: after the offset of LPT). Our results indicated that this preattached experimental setup is feasible for intraoperative applications. GER was not detected in our patients throughout LPT. The mean LESP at T2 (23.22mmHg) was significantly higher than at T1 (13.23mmHg), but comparable to that at T3 (18.91mmHg). The mean IGP (3.24mmHg) at T2 was significantly higher than at T1 and T3 (- 6.10 and - 2.25mmHg, respectively). The mean BrP scores were comparable from T1 to T3 (T1: 19.34mmHg; T2: 19.98mmHg; T3: 21.16mmHg). Based on our results, the proposed setup is helpful for intraoperative monitoring and management of patients at high risk of GER.

Gastrointestinal Dysmotility and Infections in Systemic Sclerosis- An Indian Scenario.

Systemic Sclerosis is known to involve the gastrointestinal system and can lead to multitude of problems predominantly affecting the GI motility. It was a prospective, observational, single centre study of fifty consecutive patients with SSc who presented to rheumatology clinic. Gut score was assessed using UCLA SCTC GIT 2.0 questionnaire. 35 patients underwent esophago- gastro duodenoscopy(UGIE), 31 underwent esophageal manometry, 37 underwent lactulose breath test to assess orocaecal transit time (OCTT) and glucose breath test for detecting small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and 36 underwent gastric emptying scintigraphy to measure gastric emptying time. GI involvement was seen in 98% of patients, with most common symptom being regurgitation (78%). Mean T score of the GUT score was 0.60±0.27. In UGIE, esophagitis was seen in 30, of which 3 had candidiasis and 1 had HSV esophagitis. Hiatus hernia was noted in 10 patients. Mean lower esophageal sphincter pressure was 16.1± 12.7 mmHg with hypotensive sphincture in twelve patients. Esophageal peristaltic abnormalities were observed in 28(90%) patients. Gastric emptying was delayed in10/36 patients. OCTT was prolonged in 23/ 37 patients whereas SIBO was noted in 7/37. GI involvement is common in SSc with esophagus being most commonly affected. Motility abnormalities make them prone for super added infections especially infectious esophagitis and SIBO and should be investigated for early detection and treatment.

Outcomes and quality of life assessment after per oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) performed in the endoscopy unit with trainees.

Per oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has emerged as a promising option for the treatment of achalasia. This study assessed POEM training process, outcomes, and improvement in quality of life after POEM performed by an interventional endoscopist (mentor) with trainees. We performed a retrospective review of data for patients who underwent POEM with involvement of trainees. Trainees were trained in performing mucosotomy, submucosal dissection, creating submucosal tunnel, identifying gastroesophageal junction, myotomy, and closure of mucosal incision in a step-by-step fashion. Trainees' performance on each step was evaluated by the mentor based on several key points in each step. The short form 36 (SF36) was obtained before and certain times after the primary POEM procedure was performed. Sixty-two patients, 26 males and 36 females with a mean age of 59 years, who underwent POEM were enrolled. A checklist included all related items for each step was established. All trainees obtained competence within 6 cases for each step. 61/62 (98.3%) patients had a significant improvement in the Eckardt's score post POEM: 9.3 ± 1.5 prior to POEM and 2.6 ± 1.2 after the POEM (P = 0.001) and a decrease in mean lower esophageal sphincter pressure (LES): pre- and post-procedure mean LES pressures were 28.5 ± 11.4 and 12.1 ± 4.5mmHg, respectively (P = 0.001). The SF-36 questionnaire demonstrated a significant improvement in quality of life and comparable with those without trainees in other studies. This preliminary study showed for the first time that training for POEM can be performed in a step-by-step fashion, learning mucosal incision, submucosal dissection, myotomy, and mucosal incision closure from an expert interventional endoscopist without increasing adverse events. The checklist for each step could be used as an important guide in training POEM. The outcomes of POEM in this study were similar to those reported by others without trainees. Further multiple center studies are needed to verify this training process and to establish a formal training protocol.

Comparison of Outcomes of Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy Versus Per-Oral Endoscopic Myotomy for Management of Achalasia

Achalasia is a rare disorder that has several treatment options. The gold standard of treatment is a surgical myotomy called a laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM). More recently, an endoscopic myotomy has become an option as well, called per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). An achalasia registry was queried for patients undergoing either LHM or POEM at Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas. Patient demographics, preoperative and postoperative data points, and Eckardt scores were collected. The patients were further stratified into their follow-up intervals, immediate postoperative and long-term follow-up, to assess surgical success. A subset analysis was done for success of treatment for patients who had redo surgery versus those undergoing the procedure for the first time. There were 12 patients in the POEM group and 11 patients in the LHM group. Both groups demonstrated mean lower esophageal sphincter pressures with failure to relax. Procedure length and hospital length of stay were similar between the two groups. There were three adverse events in each group, but none altered the patient's postoperative clinical course. Eckardt scores, used to assess success of the surgery, were 82% for POEM patients and 66% for LHM patients after 6 months. The outcomes for POEM and LHM in our early experience are similar to those reported in the literature for high-volume centers managing achalasia.

Per-oral endoscopic myotomy for achalasia cardia: outcomes in over 400 consecutive patients

Background and study aims Per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has emerged as an efficacious treatment modality for the management of achalasia cardia (AC) and non-achalasia spastic esophageal motility disorders. Initial results are encouraging. We analyzed the safety and efficacy of POEM in a large cohort of patients with AC. Patients and methods The data from patients who underwent POEM (from January 2013 to June 2016) was prospectively collected and analyzed. Clinical success was defined as Eckardt score ≤ 3 after POEM procedure. Objective parameters including high-resolution manometry (HRM) and timed barium swallow (TBS) were analyzed and compared before and after the procedure. Gastroesophageal reflux was analyzed using 24-hour pH impedance study and esophagogastro-duodenoscopy. Results A total of 408 patients (mean age 40 years, range 4 – 77 years) underwent POEM during the specified period. POEM could be successfully completed in 396 (97 %) patients. Clinical success rates at 1, 2 and 3 years were 94 %, 91 % and 90 %, respectively. Mean Eckardt score was 7.07 ± 1.6 prior to POEM and 1.27 ± 1.06 after POEM (P = 0.001) at 1 year. Significant improvement in esophageal emptying on TBE (> 50 %) was documented in 93.8 % patients who completed 1-year follow up. Pre-procedure and post-procedure mean lower esophageal sphincter pressure was 45 ± 16.5 mmHg and 15.6 ± 6.1 mmHg, respectively (P = 0.001). Technical and clinical success were comparable in naïve vs prior treated cases (97.3 % vs 96.8 %, P = 0.795) (95.7 % vs 92.6 %, P = 0.275). GERD was documented in 28.3 % patients with 24-hour pH-impedance study and erosive esophagitis was seen in 18.5 % of patients who underwent POEM. Conclusions POEM is safe, effective and has a durable response in patients with achalasia cardia. Prior treatment does not influence the outcomes of POEM.

Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy for Treating Achalasia Performed by a Gastroenterologist: 4 Yearsʼ Experience from a Single Endoscopy Center

Introduction: Esophageal achalasia is most commonly treated with endoscopic dilation or laparoscopic Heller myotomy. Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has recently been described as a novel treatment for achalasia in humans. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical effectiveness and safety of POEM for treating esophageal achalasia performed by a gastroenterologist in a single endoscopic center within 4 years.Table 1: Baseline and clinical characteristics of patientsTable 2: Clinical outcomes of POEM procedureMethods: Between June 2011 to November 2015, POEM was performed in 153 consecutive patients with achalasia. POEM procedure consisted of the following step: firstly, submucosal tunnel was created and extended below the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) onto the gastric cardia after a mucosal incision was made; then endoscopic myotomy of circular muscle bundles was done; finally, the mucosal entry was closed by hemostatic clips (Figure 1). The Eckardt score and manometry were used to evaluate the outcomes.Figure 1Results: POEM was successfully performed in all cases. Mean procedure time was 51.3 ± 16.6 min and mean myotomy length was 8.4 ± 3.3 cm. Mucosal perforations occurred in 6 (3.9%) patients during submucosal tunnel creation, major bleeding occurred in 9 (5.9%) patients, and 7 (4.6%) patients suffered pneumothorax immediate after procedure. All the complications were managed conservatively. During a mean follow-up period of 25 months (range 6-59.4 months), 20 patients were lost, and treatment success was achieved in 124/133 patients (93.2%). Mean LES pressure was 45.1 mmHg and 15.3 mmHg before and after the procedure (P = 0.000), respectively. Mean Eckardt score was 8.3 and 1.4 before and after POEM, respectively (P = 0.000). 23 patient (17.3%) developed mild reflux symptoms and required intermittent medication with proton pump inhibitors during the follow-up. Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that POEM is a safe, and effective treatment for achalasia during the long-term follow-up. Further studies are warranted to compare POEM with other treatment modalities.

Peroral endoscopic full-thickness myotomy for the treatment of sigmoid-type achalasia: outcomes with a minimum follow-up of 12 months.

To explore the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of peroral endoscopic full-thickness myotomy (fPOEM) for the treatment of sigmoid-type achalasia. From August 2011 to June 2014, a total of 23 sigmoid-type achalasia patients received fPOEM at our hospital. Among these patients, 19 had sigmoid-type 1 achalasia and the other four had sigmoid-type 2 achalasia. Clinical data of general characteristics, procedure-related parameters and adverse events, symptom relief, and manometry outcomes before and during the periodic follow-up were retrospectively collected and analyzed. All the patients successfully received fPOEM, with a mean procedure time of 67.6 min; six patients received a conventional fPOEM whereas the other 17 received a modified fPOEM. During a median follow-up of 18 months, the median Eckardt score decreased obviously (pre-POEM vs. post-POEM, 7.0 vs. 1.0, P<0.05), the mean lower esophageal sphincter pressures and 4s integrated relaxation pressure decreased (pre-POEM vs. post-POEM, 34.78±4.51 vs. 11.50±2.56 mmHg and 29.52±3.67 vs. 10.61±1.54 mmHg, P<0.01), and the esophageal diameter decreased (pre-POEM vs. post-POEM, 58.2±11.6 vs. 37.5±7.3 mm, P<0.05). Overall treatment success was achieved in 95.6% of the patients (22/23), and morphological improvement was observed in 95% (19/20) of the patients. In 10 patients (43.5%) complications were encountered, including gas-related complications, mucosal perforation, and reflux esophagitis. There was no significant difference in terms of efficacy between conventional fPOEM and modified fPOEM, but modified fPOEM may reduce the occurrence of gas-related complications. fPOEM is feasible, safe, and effective for the treatment of sigmoid-type achalasia. A modified fPOEM may reduce the occurrence of gas-related complications. Yet, further experiences and long-term results are warranted.

EndoFLIP® in Comparison to High-Resolution Manometry and Eckardt Score in the Assessment of Achalasia Prior to Intervention

Introduction: Achalasia is defined by manometry that demonstrates aperistalsis of the esophageal body and incomplete relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The purpose of this study is to compare the EndoFLIP (FLIP) to high resolution manometry (HRM) and Eckardt score (ES) in the initial assessment of achalasia. Methods: Twenty-one patients with achalasia were enrolled at a single tertiary center. For each patient, diagnostics included: ES, HRM, and FLIP. The FLIP system is catheter based with a distal 14cm probe containing 17 electrodes, each 5mm apart and designed to make impedance planimetry measurements. Once the bag is filled to 40cc, distensibility index (DI), cross-sectional area (CSA), balloon pressure, and minimum diameter are measured at the most narrow point. Results: The patients had a mean age of 59 years and BMI of 26.3 + 1.4 Kg/M2. The mean ES across all patients was 7.0 + 2.9. The mean LES pressure was 37.8 + 5.1 mmHg and the residual LES pressure was elevated at 25.9 + 12.1 mmHg with incomplete relaxation. There were 9 patients with type 1 achalasia, 8 patients with type 2 achalasia, and 4 patients with type 3 achalasia. Using FLIP, the CSA was 54.2 + 9.7mm2 and the minimum diameter was 7.8 + 0.7mm. The mean distensibility in the patients was 1.6 + 1.3 mm2/mmHg. There was poor correlation between the ES and DI (r= -0.22; p= 0.34 ). However, the LES residual pressure and DI were significantly inversely correlated (r= -0.44; p= 0.047). The number of patients was insufficient to show variations in results between achalasia subtypes. Conclusion: This study shows 1) DI is decreased, showing decreased stretch, in symptomatic patients with achalasia and 2) the DI correlated significantly with residual LES pressure, but not symptoms. Thus the DI can be used as a parameter to monitor therapy of achalasia. Conclusion: Distensibility is a useful tool to assess achalasia, correlating with ES and correlating significantly with LES residual pressure in the pre-intervention assessment of achalasia.

Repeat peroral endoscopic myotomy: a salvage option for persistent/recurrent symptoms.

Although peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is credited with high success rates in the treatment of achalasia, persistent/recurrent symptoms may occasionally develop afterwards. Our purpose was to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of repeat peroral endoscopic myotomy (Re-POEM) as salvage therapy after initial POEM failure. Fifteen patients with persistence/recurrence of symptoms after previous POEM (Eckardt symptom score ≥ 4) were retrospectively selected from a prospectively maintained database housing a total of 1454 consecutive patients with achalasia. The primary endpoint was symptom relief during follow-up, defined by an Eckardt score of ≤ 3. Secondary outcome measures were procedure-related adverse events, change in manometric lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure, and reflux symptoms before and after Re-POEM. All patients underwent successful Re-POEM a mean of 13.5 months (range 4 - 37 months) after execution of their primary POEM procedures. Mean operative time was 41.5 minutes (range 28 - 62 minutes). One instance of submucosal tunnel infection was successfully managed with conservative treatment. During a mean follow-up period of 11.3 months (range 3 - 18 months), therapeutic success was achieved in all patients. The mean symptom score pretreatment was 5.6 (range 4 - 8), compared with a post-treatment mean of 1.2 (range 0 - 3; P < 0.001). Mean LES pressure also declined from 25.0 mmHg to 9.5 mmHg after Re-POEM (P < 0.001). The overall clinical reflux complication rate of Re-POEM was 33.3 %. Re-POEM appears safe and effective as a salvage option after initial POEM failure, conferring short-term symptom relief and being free of serious complications in all patients.